Powerful Reasons to Practice Sustainable Tourism

Over the past few decades, the tourism sector has grown considerably and has become a sector of great importance for the economy and international trade. The total turnover of international tourism in 2015 was 1.260 billion worldwide, while the number of international travelers this year was 1.186 million. It has also proved to be a stable sector, resistant to crises and other economic phenomena, and has shown uninterrupted growth since 2009.

 

However, despite the economic benefits that the sector brings, conventional tourism also has several adverse effects, which are significant given the size of the industry: pollution of protected areas, erosion, hotels being overcrowded, displacement of the local population when visitors arrive, etc. In this context, the concept of sustainable tourism is becoming increasingly important.

 

Through the diversity of relationships associated with tourism, sustainable tourism can act as a catalyst for change globally, promoting local economies in the fight against causes such as hunger, peace, and security. Let’s check out how we can all be responsible travelers!

 

 

But What is Sustainable Tourism?

Sustainable tourism is something simple to which every traveler should be committed. In general terms, sustainable tourism is when traveling is an activity with a low impact on the environment and local cultures. But what is defined so simply is not so simple in practice. Achieving sustainable tourism development requires the commitment of all those who are part of the world of travel. Governments, companies, citizens, and localities, and, above all, travelers must do their part to benefit the industry.

 

At Towards-Sustainability, we believe that it’s the best way to travel around the world, as it is the only way that enriches both the visitor and the destinations so that it benefits the whole world. The World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has since 2015 as its main task to promote it.

 

Why Sustainable Tourism?

Practicing sustainable tourism is nothing more than applying to the world of travel what today is a necessity in all aspects of life, sustainability. Our planet’s resources are limited, and the unrestricted use that humanity has made and continues to make of them has us on the brink of a crisis. 

 

Sustainable Tourism and Environment

Global warming, driven mainly by greenhouse gases, will have impacts ranging from rising temperatures to rising sea levels. The United Nations warns that unless the process is stopped, our societies’ future is at risk.

 

Although more and more efforts are being made, the process is slow, and maintaining lifeways that consciously or unconsciously continue the planet’s depredation keeps us at high risk. Environmental sustainability must apply to everything to avoid this crisis. Traveling is one of the most important economic activities and one of the most enriching experiences for anyone. Those of us who are travelers become addicted to knowing other places, people, and cultures. But tourism can be a constructive or destructive activity in environmental and cultural terms. 

 

Axes of Sustainable Tourism

There are three axes for the development of sustainable tourism, and the ideal is that benefits are achieved in each of them. These are environment, economy, and culture.

 

Environment

When thinking about sustainability and sustainable development, the first thing that comes to mind is natural resources, which has an essential implication for tourism. It all starts with transportation because to get to a destination; we have to use some means. Although there are means without environmental impact at the local level, such as cycling or merely walking or hiking, there are no 100% clean alternatives to reach other cities or countries.

 

Sustainable tourism faces one of its main challenges since only traveling implies more than 70% of travel’s environmental damage. Accommodation, tourist facilities, and services for visitors also generate an impact, which sustainable tourism seeks to reduce or cancel. Many travelers like to practice ecotourism and live with nature.

 

 

Economy

There’s no doubt that tourism is one of the most important industries of our time. Figures from 2019 indicate that travel generated 8.9 trillion dollars globally, more than 10.3% of the world economy, and 1 in 10 jobs depend on this industry. Therefore, everyone wants a piece of the cake, but there is ambition in any place where there is money. Sustainable tourism cares about ecology and people, and therefore an adequate distribution of the resources generated is one of its interests. Hence, the fair tourism concept, where everyone involved can make a living from their work supporting the local economy.

 

 

Culture

There are millions of people traveling every year, and there are places that we all want to see at least once in our lives. And that’s why some destinations receive too many visits, to the extent that the number of visitors ends up exceeding the local population. Travelers tend to seek authentic experiences, but it is sometimes easy to consume the known. When many people go to the same places looking for the same experiences, you have mass tourism.

 

And the problem is that this is so big that serving it implies sacrificing services for local communities. This situation already occurs in many European cities where they fight against this tourism that leaves no benefits. On the other hand, receiving so many visitors runs one of the most severe globalization risks: identity loss – this can cause the loss of traditions, customs, languages, dresses, or become consumer products for the visitor, dissociated from their original meaning.

 

 

Your role is essential but very simple, choose well, visit places with respect, and consume in businesses that fight for tourism to be fair for everyone. Here, at Towards-Sustainability, we will always keep you informed of the options that exist for you. When traveling, you enjoy and help your destination and the world with responsible tourism in the natural and cultural.

 

 

Sustainable Gifts for A Housewarming

Sustainable gifts can be scary if you don’t know what to look for, but they are not hard to find. The benefits of minimizing the impact on the surrounding environment outweigh the process of finding a green gift along with buying the gift. It only takes a few minutes to think about your friend’s interests, whether it’s gardening, cooking, sewing, fashion, furniture or music, you’ll be able to find something that supports a sustainable life.

 

Most likely the next question you ask yourself is: what is a sustainable gift? Sustainability is the ability to last over time. There is no global definition of a sustainable gift, but you will probably recognize one when you see one.

 

The gift items you are looking for are natural, organic, handmade, recycled, or products that promote a sustainable environment. You should not skimp on style, fashion or substance. Paying attention to labeling will help you choose a gift that captures the lifestyle you are looking to support. Examples include green gifts, fair trade gifts, organic, made from recycled and renewable resources, which support local artisans, small businesses, cooperatives, craft industries and fair trade.

In today’s environmentally conscious world, the word sustainable has become synonymous with any product that has been made from renewable materials, that is useful, that does not clutter or pollute the environment, that does not damage the earth’s ecology, that is biodegradable or at least can be recycled or reused. Any item that does not fit this description is not sustainable.

 

In direct response to the growing demand for sustainable products, many ecological companies around the world have created articles that fit all or part of the description. A quick search on the internet or a visit to your local department store will reveal that there are many sustainable items you can give away. For those who are really passionate about sustainable living, a copy of Michael Mobbs’ Sustainable House would be perfect.

 

Other gifts you might consider would be energy-efficient electric light bulbs or solar-powered LED garden lights. These don’t cost much and consume very little electricity. If they love gardening, then you could give them a bag of organic garden fertilizer, or even some garden seedlings. If their new home does not have a garden, then you could give them flower pots or wooden containers to grow vegetables and herbs.

 

If you want more expensive items, then you could give them an instruction manual for DIY solar panels, and maybe even some of the materials they need. But a family living in greenery might already have solar energy. Do they have a swimming pool? If so, then a solar pool enclosure would be a good idea if they don’t already have one. Made of polyethylene or UV-stabilized vinyl, it prevents water loss through evaporation in hot climates and keeps the water warm in colder climates, and is a great way to save both water and electricity.

 

You might also consider organic and fair trade luxury food products, such as some excellent coffee beans or fair trade chocolate, or an organic fruit gift basket. But be careful with the packaging: don’t buy a gift because it is “sustainable” just to realize that it is packaged with a plastic load, or even a fancy basket that the recipients won’t use.

 

In short, there are plenty of options for sustainable gifts that will make great housewarming gifts, just like there are for every occasion. Don’t forget antiques or reuse items. Local boutiques and gift stores will also help you with clothing and handbags. If you are creative and have time make your gift. Cakes and pies are easy to prepare, but when you have time use your sewing or painting skills that you may have acquired. Go to the library and find a craft book, then try to make something homemade.

 

Ecological thinking is good for giving, good for living and good for the environment. It is also a lot of fun. Don’t worry when someone you know is living a sustainable lifestyle. Sustainable gifts are just around the corner.

 

 

15
Oct, 2020

5 Ideas for an Ecological Honeymoon

You have found the love of your life! He proposed a few weeks ago, and the two of you are both busy organizing your woodland wedding, which you intend to do in the enchanting forest of the national park. It will be a simple but fun gathering with your loved ones amidst giant old trees, with their creeping roots, and surrounded by a myriad of colors created by majestic plants and beautiful flowers basking in the sun. You and your future husband/wife are both nature lovers and having the opportunity to celebrate your love for each other in this magical place is a dream come true.

In the same spirit, you are also planning your honeymoon and don’t want to have a negative impact on your beloved planet but are not sure how to proceed. Not to worry anymore! Even as newlyweds, you will be able to embrace the sustainability trend by planning an ecological honeymoon. Here’s how to do it:

 

1. A Local Honeymoon

After saying ” I do”, the essential goal is that you spend quality time with your life partner. Although travel may be a shared desire, it is probably best to do something in your own country this time. With the current pandemic, you may be required to stay in quarantine upon arrival at your destination. So why travel to the other side of the world if you can barely leave the hotel? Moreover, a cozy local place, accessible by bus or train in a few hours, is always more environmentally friendly and saves money.

 

2. Embark on a Hiking Trip

If you enjoy being outdoors in the wilderness, a hike could be the perfect way to celebrate your new married life. Go on a hiking adventure to explore your honeymoon destination and marvel at the incredible biodiversity. Most packages offer tours that range from easy to more complicated, and you can choose the one that best suits your couple. But remember not to disturb the natural ecosystem, leaving it as you found it.

 

 3. Think Sustainable Transportation

The easiest way to travel sustainably at your destination is to use transportation with a smaller carbon footprint. For example, cycling or walking are the best options, but you can also use public transport, including buses and trains when necessary. And if you really need a car, try renting an environmentally friendly electric vehicle from a car rental company that supports the cause of protecting the environment.

 

4. Go for a Bike Trail

Are you a couple who truly appreciates the benefits of fitness, and who would never turn down a physical activity? Look for a place that offers bike trails for your honeymoon! This will allow you to create beautiful memories like you never had! Since you’ll be riding next to each other while enjoying nature, you’ll also strengthen your marriage bond. You can even opt for a tandem bicycle for more fun.

 

 5. Ditch the Gigantic Resorts

Did you know that by opting for room cleaning service during your stay in a resort, you also allow the use of several thousand liters of water? In fact, these huge resorts are anything but sustainable. They are known to have a destructive impact on the environment because of their amount of carbon dioxide emissions and their waste of energy, water, and food. Therefore, you can choose to lodge in a simple bed & breakfast, in a certified “green” hotel, or even go camping.

However, if you really don’t want to compromise on your 5-star hotel stay, at least hang up the “Do Not Disturb” sign and turn off the air conditioning to be energy efficient.

 

Living in a sustainable world will not happen overnight, and it is more of a journey than a destination. Yet, every opportunity you have to contribute to environmental protection will be a step forward.

In the meantime, have you found other ways to go on an ecological honeymoon? Click on the “Comments” section below and share your idea with us.

14
Oct, 2020

10 Weirdest But Greenest Inventions of All Time

The misuse of technologies has generated innumerable challenges for the sustainability and conservation of the environment. Paradoxically, the current industrial and commercial development has put the balance of the Earth at risk. That’s one of the problems that worry all parents. Possibly on more than one occasion, you have wondered what kind of future awaits the children in your family environment. Is that so?

The environmental challenges that we face are not minor and must be taken seriously. That is why quick and effective solutions are urgently needed. Thousands of scientists worldwide are working on inventing new materials and objects to allow consumers to choose an ecological and sustainable alternative.

If they can become famous, several of these inventions would represent a breakthrough in preserving our environment! It will only be necessary to overcome some obstacles such as people’s consumption habits, affordable prices, and, most importantly, safe in their use, manipulation, and results.

#1. Cigarettes With Seeds

Given the number of people who smoke globally, it occurred to someone that cigarette residues could stop being a nuisance (ash and smoke pollute and cigarette butts take about 15 years to degrade) and become something productive. Thus arose the idea of ​​cigarettes with seeds, which are equipped with biodegradable filters; After its decomposition, wildflowers will sprout from its remains that will help purify the air—an excellent way to give the bad habit of smoking an ecological twist.

#2. Energy-Saving Lamps

Light bulbs are one of the most effective creations that strive for sustainability in all aspects of the invention. Not only are they made with less polluting materials than their incandescent predecessors, but they also save up to 75% energy, last 10-12 times longer, and almost all of their components are recyclable. The next step was the LEDs that do not contain the minimum amount of mercury that the low consumption ones had and are as or more effective than these.

#3. Solar Cell Phones

As weird as it may sound, solar cell phones are a real thing. Their batteries can be charged by exposing them to the sun! Smartphones are “energy-eating” items, since being for daily use and having specific charging capacities, it is necessary to connect them regularly to chargers to keep them running. Thanks to the Fraunhofer Institute’s invention, with just 2 hours of sunning our batteries, we would have a charge for the rest of the day. The only drawback is that users tend to charge their phones at night, but it will convince them to change their habits.

#4. Newspaper Wood – From Tree to Paper to Wood

In the Netherlands, Mieke Meijer from the company Vij5 has created this new material called Kranthout (which means newspaper-wood in Dutch). Although it looks like wood, it is basically a by-product of recycling paper. Thanks to their perfect rolling and agglomeration, they have managed to make old newspapers and sawdust, chips and shavings, look (it even has veins) and are used as if they were wood, so much so that this material has great hardness, can be sanded and even paint.

#5. Photovoltaic Backpack

That’s one genuinely eco-friendly invention developed by the VoltaicSystems. It is made of a material that is the product of the recycling of various types of bottles, so it is ecological, waterproof, strong and lightweight at the same time. On the outside, it has a series of photovoltaic panels that charge internal storage batteries, to which 11 different types of connectors are attached. Not only can the camera, the camcorder, the tablets or the mobile be carried inside but we can load them as we go hiking, go to work or simply leave the backpack in the sun.

#6. From Bag to Oil

In Japan, the Blest Corporation has invented a device capable of converting plastic bags into the oil. With an approximate cost of about 9,000 euros for each machine, for every two kilos of bags (approximately) and consuming just 1 KW, it can distill one liter of oil, ideal to be used as fuel. Although the idea is to have it produced at an industrial level, if the domestic ones were to be put on the market, they would be the best solution for several of the pollution sources.

#7. Coffee Ink

3D printers are a true marvel that seemed like science fiction until a couple of years ago, but they have not solved everything. Billions of documents need to be printed every minute worldwide, and inks and toners are toxic and polluting. An ingenious designer from Korea came up with recycling coffee waste and turning it into ink, with the consequent ecological savings that this represents.

#8. Bamboo Computers

Plastic is a dangerous component (due to the long times it requires its complete destruction), but it is necessary for now. In contrast, bamboo is a very fast-growing tree that can be used to make thin, biodegradable sheets that could replace plastic. In fact, in China, there are already recyclable laptops, PCs, and Tablets, made with this material.

#9. Recyclable USB memory

All the components of this ecological, sustainable, useful, and supportive product are recycled and recyclable; its storage capacity reaches 8 Gb. For each sold, its creators contribute a percentage, which is allocated to the planting of trees in different parts of the world.

#10. Greenerator – Green Generator

Although this invention is still in its “infancy,” if it can be produced on a large scale, it would be a domestic solution for consumption, saving a lot of money and pollution. The idea is that the Greenerator generates the energy necessary to operate all the elements that require it (lights, refrigerator, TV, PC, washing machine, etc.) using only the sun and wind as a source. Its creator, Jonathan Globerson, estimates that if his invention works as he believes, it should only be consumed from external sources, 6% of what is needed per household today.

12
Oct, 2020

The 6 Greenest Cities in the World

With a mass of people, a lot of fumes, and piles of rubbish, big cities are not precisely known for their positive contribution to environmental protection. However, many cities also contribute well to ecological protection compared to the large polluters. Here are 6 of the greenest cities of the world:

1) Freiburg, Germany

Perhaps not for every city globally, but certainly for Freiburg: this city is entirely car-free. The city has been creating a more sustainable environment since 1970, and this process is bearing fruit. Waste disposal in Freiburg has been reduced by 90,000 tonnes in just 12 years. The German city has set several targets: in 2007, it was agreed that CO2 emissions must be reduced by 40% by 2030, and in 2014 the target will be increased to 50%. The city now wants 100% renewable energy.

2) Reykjavik, Iceland

The Icelandic city is determined to live entirely without fossil fuels by 2050. That will probably be the case. Geothermal heat, also known as geothermal energy, already supplies power to all buildings in the city. Around 0.01% of electricity in Iceland is produced from fossil fuels. According to The Huffington Post, Reykjavik takes the dough for green life, being the first city to live almost entirely on green energy.

3) Oslo, Norway

Last year the Oslo Government announced that it wants to ban all cars in the city within four years, and with this plan, it intends to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Eighty percent of Oslo’s heating system is based on renewable energy, and the city’s objective is to increase this percentage to 100 percent. Besides, the Norwegian town has a system that converts household waste into recyclable energy. Norway wants to be fully CO2-neutral by 2030, the chances of success are reasonable, given the successful adaptations of recent times.

4) Curitiba, Brazil

Curitiba is an excellent example of how a large, growing city can be and remain sustainable. Although Curitiba has almost two million inhabitants, the government works hard to create green areas such as parks and gardens. Besides, public transport in the Brazilian city is called a real revolution in transportation: buses run the same system like the metro, with fixed prices, lanes, and buses departing several times an hour. Around 72% of the city’s inhabitants use buses instead of their transport, which means much less air pollution. More than 1.5 million trees have recently been planted in the town, and more than 50 percent of paper, metal, glass, and plastic are recycled. The government stimulates this by rewarding residents who give away waste with vegetables or bus tickets.

 

5) Copenhagen, Denmark

Copenhagen wants to be entirely CO2-neutral by 2025, with its dedicated inhabitants, clean water, and plenty of greenery, which certainly seems feasible. The city has an offshore wind farm along the coast and began building a new metro system in 2000, which improves public transport. In addition, Copenhagen is known for making bicycles available free of charge to the city’s residents, so only 25% of Copenhagen’s households have a car.

6) Vienna, Austria

Vienna is an example of being the greenest city in the world. Moreover, it ranks first in the ranking of the “greenest” metropolises. Vienna is a leader in the following disciplines:

  • Parks and local recreational areas at every turn – half of the city is green.
  • Public transport in Vienna will take you everywhere. This is why every second inhabitant of Vienna uses it.
  • The recycling and composting programs are top-notch: 30% of the city’s energy needs come from renewable sources.
  • Sorting waste can also be stylish: In Vienna, energy is also an art.
  • Local agricultural markets provide the city with the best groceries.

What are your thoughts about these cities? Share it with us in the comments below!

Eco-Friendly Halloween Decorations

Who says Halloween can’t be green? Well, whoever said it never knew how to celebrate a green Halloween! I dare to say that a green Halloween is much better than an orange Halloween. Yes, I said it! There are many ways to celebrate Halloween while thinking about the environment. Like every holiday, Halloween will soon be upon us with all its colors, candy, and children looking for tricks and treats. We all know how much garbage this scary holiday can have on the earth with all its non-degradable plastic costumes and decorations, as well as all the candy that rots teeth and contains all kinds of chemicals. So what should an eco-family do on Halloween? Here are five tips to make your Halloween much more eco-friendly.

Serve organic treats
Treats are the most important part of the night, aren’t they? Kids love all kinds of candy for their night, so instead of the usual old chocolate, why not serve them organic, over-the-counter chocolate – it tastes like regular store chocolate, without all the chemicals and preservatives. Choose candies made with natural juices, cane sugar and natural colors so that the kids get quality treats. If you don’t want to hand out candy, make your own toys to hand out, or useful items such as pencils or even soy crayons.

Costumes that go up in line and then give away
We all know that these cheap costumes in the store are made of non-biodegradable materials, made with dangerous chemicals that are harmful to children. Instead of buying, there is a lot of material in your own home that can be remade into great children’s costumes. For example, old pillowcases can be turned into superhero capes, and recycled cardboard can be cut into all sorts of shapes. And don’t hesitate to go to your local thrift store for costume ideas, or to get extra material for all your ideas.

Use natural and/or recycled decorations
Like the costumes, Halloween decorations are made of non-recyclable materials that can be harmful in the long run, so the rule is not to buy them at all! Natural products such as corn husks, straw bales, squash and, yes, even pumpkins are great decorations, and can be added to the compost heap as soon as the holidays are over. Keep an eye out for reusable decorations made from recycled materials that can have a long life and can reduce waste in general.

Follow the trick-or-treating route
Walking your children around the neighborhood to please them is not only good for you, it’s also good for the environment. Instead of driving your car, take a greener attitude and walk your kids around the neighbourhood. You may also get to know your neighbors better. Your children will be able to see other people’s costumes and this will help them bond with your children.

Install solar lights in and around your home.
What better time than in the fall to permanently install these solar lamps that light the way to your home. This will let the kids know that there are treats to be found, and you’ll save a lot of money in the long run. Installing solar lights on the front of your house is also a good idea to save even more money.

Paper products
Whether it’s Halloween decorations or party supplies, paper is the best choice. It’s affordable and most importantly, recyclable. There are many choices of garlands, banners, tablecloths and window decorations; all are good choices for an environmentally friendly Halloween party. For fun, use Halloween-themed paper cups, plates and napkins for your party. They’re easy to clean, just throw them in the recycling garbage can and you’re done! Don’t forget aluminum cans, plastic utensils and bottles, which can all be recycled.

For your own trick or treat
If you have children who are planning to pick up Halloween treats, give them a Halloween-themed gift or treat bag to use to collect their candy instead of the traditional plastic pumpkin. The pumpkin is usually discarded after a while anyway. A Halloween-themed gift bag makes a perfect “one-time” candy holder that can then be easily discarded and recycled.

 

 

8
Oct, 2020

Sustainable Fashion – How to Look Fabulous While Green

When talking about sustainability, the majority of us focus on things like renewable energy sources, going vegan, travelling less or by less polluting methods. But how many of us stop to think whether the clothes we wear are sustainable?

It’s no secret that fashion is a multi-billion industry that produces a vast amount of waste. Have a look through your closet. How many of the outfits that are hanging in there have you worn more than twice in the last fortnight? How many outfits have you bought in the last month that you won’t wear more than a handful of times before either relegating it to the back of the closet or to the donation pile, if not outright to the bin? Then look at your shoe rack and do the same thing.

If we consider sustainability to rest on a balance of the 3P’s (People, Planet, Profit), how does the current ‘Fast Fashion’ trend measure up, and what can we do to improve our habits. After all, humans are vain creatures that want to look good too.

Let’s start with the first P, People

We all know that the manufacturing industry relies on people. And we also know that many factories cut corners to be able to meet high targets and cut costs. These cost cutting measures are usually at the workers’ detriment, such as unregulated health, safety and wage standards. We’ve all heard the horror stories, and as consumers, we need to feel compelled to do something about it.

The only way consumers can make a real impact is by voting with our wallets. Make it a point to always check if your product comes from a company with a history of running sweatshops in third-world countries. As much as possible, avoid this brands and opt for companies with a reputation for fair trade. At least that way, you’re sending a message that sustainable practices matter to you.

Planet

It’s a sad fact that over 40% of the clothes in our closets don’t get worn on a regular basis. After being confined to the back of the closet for the longest time, most of these get discarded to landfills across the globe, which leads to an increase in toxins being released into the atmosphere.

When considering a fashion sustainability initiative that will have a positive impact on the planet, it is important to discuss two major points. Firstly, the materials used. There are a greater number of designers that are taking the laudable step to turn to eco-friendly materials like hemp, organic cotton and recycled polyester, which we, as consumers, should privilege over more traditional materials.

The second point is disposal. As previously mentioned, the vast majority of us wear an outfit a couple of times before getting rid of it. If we are unwilling to change these habits, then we need to take care to not throw clothes away to be disposed in landfills. Instead, why not donate them, or send them off for recycling. There are plenty of online applications that can help with this, as well as the traditional means like your local consignment/thrift store.

Profit

As with all businesses, fashion retailers want to turn a profit. Since sustainable initiatives are seen to cut into their bottom line, many clothes manufacturers and retailers are reluctant to support these initiatives. It is our duty as consumers to convince these manufacturers of the benefits of sustainable fashion.

One of the ways to do this is to support ethical fashion choices. Demand minimal packaging with your purchases. Encourage them to be transparent about their business practices and pricing models. For retailers, opt for social media marketing over the traditional billboard and newspaper media. Use recycled material for packaging. Recycle unused inventory rather than discarding it.

Hopefully this article can help spark a conversation that can lead to a change in fashion habits. Join the conversation in the comments below and let us know your views.

8
Oct, 2020

How to Celebrate an Ecological Halloween?

It seems incredible, but another year has passed, and we are once again at the gates of the most horrifying party of the year: Halloween. Candy, decorations, costumes, and greeting cards, all of which produce large amounts of waste, cannot be missing every Halloween. We have some eco-friendly tips to make this Halloween a little more planet and wallet-friendly.

Decorating with autumn fruits and dried leaves is a typical way of celebrating the start of the season, but it is also true that it has become a classic, and therefore bears no date on the calendar. Let’s seize this opportunity to craft lasting decorations that can come in handy and brighten up spaces throughout the year. As such, we’ll save time, money, and reduce waste, a threefold advantage that becomes a practical and advantageous ecological gesture. However, Halloween decorations have an incredibly intense and specific tone, which makes it challenging to achieve.

Let’s check out a few simple but smart and planet-friendly tips on how to make the most of the raw materials, namely the typical pumpkins and other accessories (scraps of fabric, old brooms, recycled candles, etc.) that create an elegant environment with a nice touch that is really spooky and terrifying…

 

 

Less Is More

12 DIY Eco-Friendly Halloween Decor for Your Apartment | ApartmentGuide.com

 

When it comes to ecology, reducing is winning. The famous three R’s (reduce, reuse, and recycle) make this clear. By the way, the same maxim can also be applied to the decoration. A happy coincidence that will help us work less and showcase our projects more.

If we think about it, it is probably useless to buy typical Halloween merchandise to fill the house, interior, and garden with objects that give us chills. It’s terrifying for the planet that we are going into consumerism when great alternatives are much more environmentally friendly. The benefits are worth it. On the one hand, we will only focus on one or more alternatives, so the result will be better because we will devote all our attention and more time. On the other hand, the ecology will be a chapter that will be passed with flying colors, mainly if we also use pumpkins that are well emptied and left to dry to make them last longer.

 

 

Taking Advantage of All This

DIY Duck Tape Jack O'Lantern Candy Dispenser Tutorial

 

With the leftovers and the remaining pulp, it will be easy to make delicious dishes from its simple cooking, with a delightful taste if the pumpkin is not very sweet. Otherwise, let’s accompany it with a garnish or decoration that softens it, such as honey, nut cream, a little sugar, a sweetener such as Stevia, fructose … Pumpkin soup is also a delicious dish or puree, and we can even make a julienne type soup, with chunks that can be pieces of vegetables such as potato, onion, carrot, and, of course, the same pumpkin pulp chopped into small cubes.

 

 

Halloween Decoration

20 Halloween Food Ideas That Will Impress You - YouTube

Cooking can be a very, very good and rich idea. Not only because the possibilities of being creative are enormous, but also because the simplest recipes, such as muffins, cakes, or biscuits, can be used as the basis for decorating them in true Halloween style.

Finally, suppose we don’t want to give ourselves the time to make terrifying decorations. In this case, we simply reserve the typical lamp created from a carved pumpkin for the days leading up to Halloween and enjoy the autumn decoration. Whole pumpkins and other autumn fruits adapt, dry leaves and branches to create a suggestive atmosphere.

If we make it tastefully, it will serve us throughout the season, and just add details such as candles or the pumpkin carved on All Saints’ Day to give it special meaning. Let’s not forget that darkness is the best Halloween accessory and that it is free. Darkness is also very cheap, for the pocket and the planet, let’s play with it, not with our dear Mother Earth!

 

7
Oct, 2020

What Is Sustainable in Meal Prepping?

You’ve probably heard about the term “meal prepping” a lot. While it is a millennial food trend all over the internet these days, this is not a new concept and has been around for several decades. Meal prep (short for preparation) is a strategic method initially used in the cooking industry and was first created to increase restaurant kitchens’ productivity. In this era, meal prep is considered an appealing and beneficial form of consumption in self-improvement, economy, and health.

But what is exactly meal prepping? It consists of making different food preparations (also with leftovers) at one time, so they are ready when you need to have breakfast, lunches, or dinners. You can easily grab them for work or have them at home and can quickly heat the meals in the microwave.

While this technique is known as a clean-eating and money-saving tip, you can also save the planet with it! Yes, you’ve read right! Let’s see together how we can be sustainable with meal prepping.

No More Leftovers

The act of eliminating leftovers is probably the major part of meal prepping that is Eco-friendly. Many people do not realize the number of portions that go to waste. In fact, one-third of the food produced worldwide is wasted, which makes approximately 1.3 billion tonnes of food. Generally, in numerous homes, if there are leftovers from the previous night, this food would end up in the garbage.

One might think that the food will be biodegradable, so there’s nothing to worry about. However, many landfills are low in oxygen, and organic materials need this gas to decompose properly. Otherwise, while decaying, they will produce methane, a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. Hence, there will be no more leftovers with meal prepping as you’ll cook the right amount of food for a specific number of days.

  • Create New Meals

    Another way to avoid sending leftovers to landfills is to give them a new purpose or create other meals. For instance, if some veggies are left, use them for cooking a vegetable stock and trying other recipes with it.

  • Use Scraps

    When peeling vegetables, many are those you throw away the skin. Yet, you can use the skin of veggies like potatoes and carrots to create savory chips.

Food Tracking

To succeed at meal prepping, you have to start meal planning that will allow you to know exactly what to buy when you go to the grocery store. While this will stop you from spending money unnecessarily on food that will probably go to waste, you’ll also keep track of every food you bought. Your vegetables and fruits will not stay in the fridge until they rot or become too mushy to eat, hence reducing your waste level.

Glass Over Plastic

While every environmentalist recommends that you reduce your plastic consumption to become more sustainable, this task may seem daunting at first. However, meal prepping can be of great help here! You can stop purchasing plastic containers that will be thrown away after one use. Instead, you can invest in glass for food storage solutions, which are better choices for sustainability.

Less Fast Food

Takeout and fast food do very little in terms of sustainability and in fact, encourage more waste. In 2013, Statistic Brain stated that fast food restaurants generate about 32 billion pounds of food waste in America alone. Therefore, when you prepare your meals before, you have everything ready when you don’t feel like cooking. While you would usually be tempted to eat outside on these days, you can be more sustainable with meal prepping and just heat your home cooked food.

While meal prepping is a great way to start your sustainable lifestyle, it also comes with various benefits. Did you recently give meal prep a try? Let us know in the comments below how you’ve found it so far.

5
Oct, 2020

What Are the Cleanest Sources of Energy?

With the environmental impact and sustainability of our current energy consumption becoming more of a focal point, more and more countries are taking steps to invest heavily in cleaner and more readily available means to power our lives.

Questions are constantly being asked and alternatives to fossil fuel are constantly being developed and refined. Out of all the options we have, which renewable energy source is the most sustainable and environmentally responsible? In this article, we’ll go through some of the energy sources that are dominating the conversation in an attempt to answer that question. Starting with…

Solar Energy

One of, if not the most recognized sources of renewable energy, solar energy provides usable with negligible environmental impact. Most photovoltaic systems date back to the mid-1970s, which is when the search for an alternative to fossil fuels actually began.

Solar power is one of the most widely used renewable energy sources, with countries like the UK calculating that it provides around 4% of the nation’s electricity.

Hydro Power

The second in the big-3 of renewable energy sources, hydropower produces no pollution, is flexible enough to work on both small and large scales, and can be implemented in any area that has access to waterways, which makes it ideal for almost any country.

China is currently the world’s largest hydroelectric power producer, with a total production capacity that surpasses the United States, Brazil and Canada combined.

Wind Energy

The last of the most widespread renewable energy production methods, wind power is slowing gaining more traction and could soon be used to power whole cities. The disadvantage of wind power as compared to its better-known counterparts is the fact that wind turbines cost quite a bit more to maintain, and it is only viable in areas with large amounts of strong wind activity.

Denmark is the world leader in wind-power usage, with 28% of the nation’s energy coming from this source.

Geothermal Energy

Most commonly used in Scandinavian countries, who are known for their many geysers, geothermal power plants convert heat into electricity for use in towns and cities. Unlike coal or gas plants, which burn fossil fuels to create electricity, geothermal power plants use natural heat from beneath the earth.

A clean and renewable source of energy, geothermal electricity has attracted a lot of attention in recent years from countries concerned about reducing greenhouse gas emissions and energy renewability.

Tidal Energy & Wave Energy

Like most other renewable energy sources, tidal power plants aim to harness the power from a natural source and convert it into electricity. In this case, we are working with the movement of tides. There are currently two different types of tidal energy in use: tidal stream and tidal range energy.

While sharing some similarities with tidal energy, wave energy is considered an emerging technology that involves capturing energy from the motion of waves and using this energy to generate electricity. However, further refinement is required for the method to gain widespread appeal, since it is still considered unpredictable and difficult to harness.

Nuclear Energy

Although nuclear energy is controversial and often associated with weapons and the disasters at Chernobyl, and more recently Fukushima, it remains one of the world’s cleanest and most affordable sources of energy. Nuclear power is one of the world’s most popular sources of energy. In France, as an example, around 75% of the country’s entire electricity is created by nuclear power stations. In the United States, nuclear power contributed around 20% of electricity. Some of the advantages of nuclear energy include low emissions and an extremely limited impact on air quality, as well as low costs. Despite nuclear energy’s benefits, it remains a controversial source of power due to issues storing nuclear waste.

So there you have it, a breakdown of some of the most common and cleanest sources of renewable energy currently in use. Can you think of any others? Share your views in the comments below.