What Earth Day means to us

There was once a time when the thick, cloudy pollutants emanating from a power plant were symbolic of industrial success, rather than the makings of an impending environmental disaster.

It’s only in recent years that the general populace has considered, or even been aware of, the environmental degradation caused by the unrestricted autonomy of industry, corporations and even ourselves.

It wasn’t until the late sixties that the extent of this untamed issue was met in full view – when in January 1969, a massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California ravaged the area with destructive effects.

In lieu of this travesty and the increasing awareness of our self-destructive dilemma, Senator Gaylord Nelson formed Earth Day as a means of shining a light on these issues within the public sphere.

Since then, it’s become a global phenomenon – sometimes extending its reach into Earth Week, and hopefully beyond! In 2012, the goal of planting a billion trees was achieved through an organisation known as Billion Tree Campaign. They’ve since renamed to Trillion Tree Campaign.

This year’s theme is “Invest In Our Planet”, encouraging individuals, businesses and governments to invest in technologies and practices that can benefit the earth. The principles are simple. Reflect on your contribution to the Earth: how can you make a difference?

The role of a tour operator may seem counterproductive to the aforementioned goal, after all, the tourism industry is responsible for 5% of global greenhouse gas emissions – which is no small figure.

However, this is why travelling responsibly is such a focal imperative, allowing you not only to counteract these negative effects but to actively contribute to places you visit, providing a net positive impact!

At Odyssey World, we’ve done most of the thinking for you – our tour packages are designed with a strict adherence to sustainability, making sure the accommodation, transport and services are selected specifically for their conservatory values. You can find out more about what it means (and how easy it is) to be a responsible tourist by clicking here.

                                                       

Perhaps Costa Rica appeals to you this spring, with its verdant landscape and vibrant culture. Book a tour and become situated in the Kura Design Villas – a bespoke, luxury hotel with a state-of-the-art pool overlooking a tremendous vista of nature’s beauty. Despite the impressive credentials, its sustainability is the top priority, mirroring Costa Rica’s ecological priorities.

From its eradication of plastic and one-use bottles (and introduction of bamboo straws!), to an onsite organic greenhouse contributing produce to its dishes, a strict adherence to waste reduction principles and even its teak wood architecture – a highly sustainable building material – there are fewer places with such a systemic dedication to green principles.

Borneo is always a favourite, and the orangutans deserve some of the credit! 95% of Odyssey World Borneo tours include a stay at Abai Jungle Lodge, and for good reason!

                                                       

Abai Jungle Lodge is a riverside accommodation only accessible via boat, with rustic wooden décor and myriad features of sustainability, such as a system that intakes rainwater and subjects it to high-tech filtration methods.

Your experience at Abai may include an opportunity to meet and dine with local villagers and plant a tree as part of your authentic rainforest experience!

The accommodation itself features spacious, quaint bedrooms and an adjacent restaurant overlooking the stunning Kinabatangan river, which serves fresh and local produce.

Instead, are you searching for that incredible safari experience? Then look no further than Tanzania!

Many believe Tanzania takes the crown in this territory, with some of the most exquisite wildlife attractions you can see.

                                                       

We recommend Chem Chem lodges, a luxury accommodation provider that weaves the exceptional beauty of Africa’s big game with the tranquillity of refined domestic bliss.

With three standalone sites, ranging from safaris to forests, each evoking a unique experience and connection with nature, it would be hard to pass. The progenitor of the ‘slow safari’, immerse yourself with nature through every sense – see, feel, touch and smell the world around you like never before.

Moreover, it’s the principles of conservation that make Chem Chem truly transcend the pack – the Chem Chem Association (CCA) is a non-profit organisation determined to protect wildlife and empower rural communities. By partnering with local authorities, they manage to connect the adjoining national parks, thus ensuring the preservation of the entire local ecosystem.

The impact one has on a vulnerable area is paramount to its conservation, so it’s no surprise that the Chem Chem Association (CCA) boasts a burgeoning tally of ecological accreditation – be it local women empowered, anti-poaching units formed, villages supported and more.

And last but not least, how can we avoid mentioning gorgeous Namibia? With its striking and dramatic scenery, it’s hardly a destination you can dismiss.

                                                       

Onguma offers a range of safari camps and accommodations across the landscape, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural habitat.

With 5 lodges, two campsites and 34,000 hectares of private wilderness to explore, your options are hardly limited.

Pioneers of conservation, Onguma employs an anti-poaching unit with great success. They also prioritise employment – creating jobs for locals as a way to aid the surrounding area, as well as producing fresh vegetables and providing assistance to local schools.

Whatever your plans, a conscious awareness of the principles of responsible travel are a great way to benefit yourself and the planet!

Happy Earth Day!