If there is one thing every traveller can agree on, it is that the world around us is wonderful. As people who know its beauty, we also understand the importance of preserving it. But no one is born knowing everything, and sometimes it is hard to know how we can help protect our planet. That is why we continue with «There is no planet B”, a series of posts offering advice on actions that can help preserve our wonderful world.
Chapter 3: What We Have Learned
When we began this series of posts, we never imagined all what we still have to learn. It has been a disastrous year for many, including us. Yet here we are. We could lament and stand still, but our character drives us onwards. Along the way, we have remembered things we sometimes lose sight of, and we have learned many new things.
1. The positive impact of your travels
We knew that. Our activity, your travels, are fundamental to the work of many people, and many families depend on them: ours, of course, but also those of people around the world.
Until now, we had experienced situations in which certain destinations, due to war, political situations, or natural disasters, stopped receiving tourism overnight, suddenly leaving many people without the possibility of working. At times, we could afford to lend a hand to those who were left with nothing overnight.
But this unprecedented situation affects everyone worldwide: us, guides, accommodation providers and local communities. Small businesses, communities and local accommodation are hit especially hard. More than ever, we see the damage caused when our activity stops.
This leads us to a clear conclusion: Travel, as long as you can.. Your travels support many people’s livelihoods.
2. The positive impact of stopping travel
The other side of the coin is clear and real, however little we like it. Stopping activity also has a positive impact, this time on the environment. Although we could have imagined it, this situation makes it clearer than ever.
During these months, reduced human activity has allowed nature to regain some of its space, bringing us closer to the world we would like to live in. It offers a chance to see the effect of our daily activities, beyond travel, and what the world could look like if we changed our behaviour.
That is why it is a good time to reflect, to think about what we do well and what we can improve.
3. The search for balance
We understand sustainability as a balance between the two: creating a positive economic impact while caring for the environment as much as possible. Both must coexist. Let's not wait any longer!
About Tuareg Responsable
At Tuareg, we take an active role in working for social justice and protecting our environment. The initiative Responsible Tuareg aims to promote projects that allow us to do our bit for make our world a better place for all. Find out more...
