Wanderlust Without Waste: These Sustainable Travel Influencers Are Leading The Way

Earth Day 2024 is just around the corner; let’s talk about travel – but not just the picture-perfect postcards and brag-worthy itineraries. Tourism is a double-edged sword. It exposes us to new cultures, broadens our horizons, and injects much-needed revenue into local economies. But on the flip side, our wanderlust can leave a hefty footprint on the environment and strain the very ecosystems we flock to see. This is where Sagar, Aakash Ranison, and Shivya Nath come in – sustainable travel influencers in India who are redefining how we explore the world.

Meet Sagar, an award-winning backpacker whose passion goes beyond ticking destinations off a list. He’s a Green Crusader awardee, recognized for planting over 4,000 trees! Sagar isn’t just an adventurer; he’s a keen observer who studies the impact of human activity on local communities and wildlife.

Sagar’s expertise in permaculture, wildlife running, and wild food reflects his deep connection with nature. He actively participates in projects like @prakritiecovillage, promoting responsible and eco-conscious travel practices. By following Sagar, you’ll gain valuable insights into minimizing your impact while maximizing your travel experiences.

Aakash Ranison is a sustainable travel entrepreneur and a champion of mindful living. His blog and social media channels are a treasure trove of information on eco-friendly practices, from simplifying climate change issues to promoting veganism and sharing practical tips for a greener lifestyle.

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A post shared by Aakash Ranison | I’m A Climate Optimist (@aakashranison)

Aakash’s influence extends far beyond social media. He’s a TEDx and Google Talk speaker, featured in Forbes, Economic Times, Vice, and Vogue. This eco-warrior inspires others to make conscious choices for a healthier planet, one mindful trip at a time.

Shivya is a travel writer, sustainability speaker, consultant, and an Instagram powerhouse with a 118K community. Further, she believes in the transformative power of travel, but also its responsibility towards the environment. However, after quitting her job in 2011, she embarked on a nomadic journey, writing her book “The Shooting Star” along the way.

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A post shared by Shivya Nath (@shivya)

Shivya founded Climate Conscious Travel, a consultancy dedicated to integrating community-centric climate action into tourism. Although, she actively collaborates with brands like Hyundai India and the Swiss government, promoting responsible travel practices to a wider audience. Recently, Shivya was a finalist for The Bessie Award’s Most Impactful Piece of Travel Writing.

These are just a few of the many sustainable travel influencers making waves. Moreover, Their message is clear: travel can be a force for good, but it requires a shift in perspective. However, By following their lead and embracing sustainable practices, our generation can ensure that the world we explore remains a wonder for generations to come.

• Research your destination: Choose eco-friendly accommodations, support locally-owned businesses, and opt for activities that minimize environmental impact.
• Pack light: Reduce your carbon footprint and travel headaches by packing only what you need.
• Embrace slow travel: Immerse yourself in a destination by staying longer and exploring at a leisurely pace.
• Respect local cultures and customs: Be mindful of your dress code, noise levels, and waste generation.
• Give back to the places you visit: Support local conservation efforts or participate in voluntourism projects.

Let’s celebrate Earth Day by making a conscious effort to travel deeper and tread lightly. Together, we can ensure that our adventures leave a positive impact on the planet we call home.