Introduction
It is more important than ever to go green. Each country is responsible for its own sustainability. A sustainable country will provide better quality of living for its citizens, help to protect the environment, and reduce global warming. To avoid and prevent climate change, it is vital that all countries work towards becoming greener. This is why many of the countries already promote themselves as Eco-friendly tourist destinations that attracts millions of people who want to travel responsibly. In this article we will give you the overview of some of the most Eco-friendly countries in Europe that can become your next travel destination.
Why Going Green is Important in Tourism?
It is important to promote ecotourism because individuals and companies who adhere to the core principles of ecotourism and prioritize education and ecology in their travels can benefit the local community and the entire world.
Because traditional tourism increases the number and dependence on natural resources, it can cause significant strain to destinations. It can also encourage destruction of the natural environment as businesses try to meet ever-increasing demand.
Ecotourism companies sell products and services that educate tourists about the negative effects of other forms tourism. This can help with conservation efforts. Ecotourism is a rising trend. It helps to provide jobs as well as providing ecotourism products and services.
Principles of Eco-Friendly Tourism
Some of the most important principles of Eco-Friendly Tourism includes the following:
- Reduce the negative social, physical and behavioral impacts of tourism on natural areas.
- Encourage respect for local culture and environmental awareness.
- Local businesses and individuals can benefit from financial assistance and positive experiences.
- Provide memorable and positive experiences for visitors who visit places of natural beauty.
- Partner with indigenous peoples to recognize their customs, beliefs and rights.
- Reduce Carbon footprint by taking more sustainable modes of transport (ex: Trains, buses, public transport instead of planes and rental cars).
Local people and businesses deserve the benefits of ecotourism. However, it is up to travelers and companies to deliver them.
Most Eco-Friendly Countries in Europe for Travel
While the trend of going green has started all over the world, Europe has been the pioneer in that aspect. Many of the European countries, especially in the Western part of the continent, promote themselves as the ideal destination for those who want to travel but reduce its environmental effects to minimum.
In the meanwhile, you can check out ETIAS Website to get updated information on EU Entry Regulations that is about to change from 2023.
Sweden
Sweden is the most sustainable country in the world. This is the country with the highest renewable energy consumption and the lowest carbon emissions. It also has the best education programs. The country will reduce its emissions by 85 to 100 percent by 2045. Renewable sources account for more than half of all energy consumed. Sweden also uses smart roads and electric buses to reduce its emissions. Food banks, recycling, and housing for the vulnerable have all been used to achieve sustainability.
Luxembourg
Luxembourg, despite its increasing population and GDP is the 2 most green country. This is due to its efforts in decoupling environment pressures from growth.
Luxembourg is both the smallest and most wealthy country in the European Union. Its citizens have a high standard living. Luxembourg has an overall EPI score of 82.3 and ranks 2 nd for ecosystem vitality. It also ranks 6 for water resources treatment and 98.5 for wastewater treatment.
Switzerland
Switzerland is home to one of the most sustainable waste management systems in the world. Each year, it converts around 100,000 tonnes of waste into energy. Switzerland is committed to conserving water. Their wastewater plant purifies 90 million litres daily. Switzerland plans to become 100% renewable energy by 2050, increasing oceans’ health by half and making it carbon neutral.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is 4th on the list of eco-friendly nations. The UK is ranking 4th in ecosystem vitality, sanitation, and joint 2nd for drinking water.
In the last few years, the UK has taken significant steps to reduce plastic waste. At first, all plastic bags were subject to a charge. Their use was reduced to 90%. In 2020 the UK announced a country-wide ban on usage of plastic straws. The following year the government also imposed a ban on single-use plastic cutlery.
France
France is less industrialized than most other developed countries. This has allowed it to reduce air pollution and CO2 emissions. Others initiatives, such as hydroturbines and laws to reduce food waste, have been also welcomed.
France ranks 5th in the ranking of most environmentally-friendly countries. This is due to its high scores in climate change, pollution emissions, and biodiversity. In recent years, France has promoted itself as one of the top locations for ecotourism, thanks to its natural beauty and plenty of magnificent landmarks.
Conclusion
Going Green has become super-important for many of the countries. Promoting Ecotourism not only helps countries to reduce their environmental impact on the nature, but also adjust to new ways of travel by providing green and eco-friendly environment to travelers. We hope that these five European countries will become a perfect example how a country can adjust to new realities and adopt greener solutions for ecological and social problems.
