Travel and tourism accounts for approximately 10% of the total global carbon footprint. India has the fourth-largest carbon footprint from tourism in the world. A large population and a growing income level are the key drivers for this footprint. Tourism is found to be income-elastic and it means that people demand a lot more travel when their income increases. Now, we have an ever growing number of people who travel. The important question is, how many of them travel sustainably?

Do you know that sleeping in tent emits zero greenhouse gases

According to a research conducted by Booking.com in 2020, 96% of Indian travellers identified sustainable travel as important to them, while 76% said they were more determined to make sustainable choices when looking to travel again in the future. Furthermore, witnessing the impact that tourism has on the environment while on vacation has resulted in 73% of travellers making more eco-friendly choices in their everyday life.

However, while these findings are promising, obstacles still exist. 39% of Indian travellers do not know how or where to find sustainable travel options and 54% think there aren’t enough sustainable travel options available.

Sneakout is focused on building a community of responsible travellers, nature lovers and adventure seekers. A platform where like minded people get connected while finding greener ways to stay, travel and explore. Sustainability and green community being the core of existence of this organisation, we embrace all those who want to contribute to build a better environment for us to live and thrive.

In recent times, we are experiencing climate shifts which appear in the form of extreme heat waves, wildfires, droughts, floods. This is affecting the lives of humans and other animals and plants on Earth. As travel and outdoor lovers we have the responsibility to contribute less carbon as we travel and explore. Camping is a better way to stay which has almost zero carbon emission. As we build this community larger and influence more people to camp safely, we can make a considerable difference in carbon emission related to travel and tourism.

What is the impact of the accommodation you choose while travelling? A stay involves the consumption of water, energy, and waste. The more luxurious the accommodation, the greater the CO2 footprint. With a night in a star hotel or premium B&B, an average of 23 kilograms of CO2 is emitted. With a caravan, you reduce emissions per night by more than 80%.

The largest share of CO2 emissions from tourism comes from transport. Flying is the most polluting method. Although a motorhome emits a lot of CO2 per kilometer, it is once again one of the most sustainable forms of overnight accommodation. The type of transport is an important factor. At the same time, distance is also an important factor. Going on holiday close to home quickly results in a major reduction in your CO2 footprint.

Want to find a getaway for two people for two nights? Do you opt for a long trip on a flight, Or do you opt for a camping spot close to nature? A camping option will save you up to 95% CO2 emissions.

In short, do you also want to travel more consciously as part of a more conscious life? Then take into account the type of accommodation, transport and the distance you travel.