How to have a more sustainable summer

The hottest season of the year has arrived, and as many people begin to prepare for their summer vacation, with trips to beach destinations and outdoor activities, it is important to keep in mind that our actions as tourists have a significant impact on environment. Being sustainable not only allows us to help the planet, but also helps us enjoy the season responsibly. In this article, we will explore some ways to maintain more sustainable behavior during the summer.

Energy

THE excessive energy use is one of the most common problems of the season. In an attempt to cool in the spaces where we are, we end up resorting to air conditioning systems, fans, and the like, which leads to increased energy consumption and, consequently, a higher level of greenhouse gas emissions, derived from energy production. There are certain individual behaviors that can help minimize this occurrence, such as: adjusting the air conditioning temperature to a comfortable level, instead of leaving it very low; closing curtains and blinds to avoid direct sunlight and thus keep the environment cooler; turning off electronic devices when not in use; and, if possible, opting for low-consumption LED bulbs.

Transport

For those who like to travel, often the transport is an important part of travel plans. Whenever possible, opting for public transport is an excellent eco-friendly option compared to car rental. Additionally, if it's for a shorter trip or a nearby destination, the bicycle can be a good alternative, besides being healthier. If you don't want or can't give up the car, if you can choose a hybrid or electric vehicle, you are already contributing to helping the environment! 

Consumption

It's summer, it's hot! The food consumption and, above all, drinks, especially increases during this season, not only because of the temperatures but also due to outdoor social moments. Preferring organic and locally produced foods is one of the actions you can take to reduce your environmental impact and, at the same time, support local businesses. Furthermore, although legislation already requires a significant reduction in this case, avoiding disposable packaging is also very positive.

Nature

In a season when we make more use of outdoor spaces and nature, it is essential that we take responsibility to help preserve natural areas. Not littering and following conservation rules is something essential. Moreover, certain outdoor activities are harmful to the environment, so it is important to choose something that does not cause a negative environmental impact, such as hiking, canoeing, cycling, etc. 

The conclusion is that, to have a more sustainable summer and environmentally friendly, it is not necessary to make major changes to our lifestyle; we just need to adopt more conscious practices. Small actions, such as saving energy or choosing public transport, not only help the planet but also the wallet!