Did you know that more than half of travellers (53%) are now conscious of tourism’s impact on local communities, as well as the environment? According to research there have been significant changes in people’s views on how they want to travel.

If you want to enjoy your holidays in a way that has less of an impact on our planet and the life within – check out our tips below. Also, as Triodos Bank lends to Green-Tourism certified businesses or those working towards it, we’ve scattered in a few of our fantastic customers for a little extra inspiration!

1. Try alternative methods of transport within your holiday location

We’re all aware of flying’s huge carbon footprint and whilst we advocate against this, sometimes it’s just not feasible. You can, however, utilise different transport methods once you reach your destination.

Instead of hiring a car, why not look for all-electric public transport? Companies such as Ember, the UK’s first all-electric intercity bus service, helps to connect cities in Scotland while reducing greenhouse-gas emissions.

Or you could even hire an e-bike and ride around in style at your own pace. In 2023, Triodos supported Forest, a fellow B Corp and London’s only zero emission e-bike operator. This could also prove to be a cheaper option – with Forest, riders get their first 10 minutes for free every day before paying just £0.19 per minute thereafter. You can then use your extra budget to try more local delicacies!

2. Reduce the chemicals in your personal care products

Personal care products can be harmful to the environment because of the synthetic ingredients they often contain, which can cause harm to fish and wildlife when they reach waterways.

When it comes to health and beauty products, we love what Neal's Yard Remedies have on offer. Using ethically sourced herbs, botanicals and essential oils, their experts handcraft potent blends of love, science and nature into each and every product.

For many, holidays are synonymous with mosquito bites and itchiness. Incognito, a producer of award-winning, totally natural insect repellent, uses certified organic and completely natural ingredients in its products.

3. Avoid single-use plastics

A reusable bottle is great, and we’re always proud to see City to Sea's refillable stations across the county. But can you take this even further? How about trying reusable cutlery, opting for products with little/no packaging, buying groceries in bulk, trying bamboo toothbrushes, or switching to plastic-free soap and shampoo bars – handmade cosmetics brand Lush sells 66% of its products naked each year, meaning it can invest more into extra staff and training.

4. Opt for eco-friendly accommodation

At Triodos, we are lucky to work with organisations ranging from organic farms to music venues and everything in between. Amongst these lie various holiday hotspots, which we think will appeal to those looking to get away.

Comrie Croft in Perthshire, Scotland is an awesome spot for those looking to wake up and smell the daisies. With a farmstead hostel, group accommodation, camping, Nordic kåtas (hand-crafted tents), walking trails, wildlife viewing and some of the best compact mountain-biking in the country, this is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

The Lochranza Centre, residing amongst the stunning scenery of the Isle of Arran, also provides a quality outdoor experience for all. They aim to give their visitors an appreciation for the landscape and environment through studies and active involvement in nature.

Nestled in the hamlet of Newby Bridge, The Swan sits in an enviable position fronting the River Leven in Lancashire. As one of the more luxurious venues we recommend, the hotel ensures relaxed service, coupled with a vibrant atmosphere and distinctive design.

5. Leave no trace

We know that you’re not the type of traveller to leave litter behind… but what if you went one step further and left a place better than you found it? Many communities offer opportunities like beach clean-ups, forest maintenance days, or garden building projects. Just a few hours of volunteering can help to offset your trip's carbon footprint and it’s a meaningful way to give back directly to the places you visit. Bonus: it can also be a fun group activity, especially with kids in tow.

6. Visit a Triodos customer!

If you’re like us, then you’ll enjoy supporting organisations who have a positive impact on the environment and at Triodos we have some really interesting customers. Below are a few of our suggestions for how to have a fun day out whilst supporting organisations who not only operate sustainably, but bank sustainably too.

Wake the Tiger is an immersive art experience in Bristol that combines interactive art installations with a strong sustainability message. This amazement park offers a unique day out for all ages, encouraging visitors to reflect on environmental issues through creative storytelling.

Those travelling near the South-East of the UK may be tempted by Sea Lanes, an open-water swimming facility on Brighton's seafront with (don’t worry!) a heated pool to act as a stepping stone to the sea, and create a happier and healthier community. The site also features carbon-neutral modular units that house other local businesses which share a mission of sustainability.

For those of our readers interested in wildlife, The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) manages over 200 nature reserves across the UK, providing vital habitats for wildlife and enjoyable experiences for visitors. In the last five years, Triodos supported RSPB in installing renewable energy projects across some of its nature reserves and also in opening various new cafes.