Our Selo XIS Guide for Conscientious Tourists brings together 10 attitudes for more sustainable tourism. The tourism industry is one of the most important in the world (to give you an idea, it accounts for 10% of global GDP) and can play a leading role in combating climate change, as well as having a positive impact on the lives of local communities. Remember that traveling systematically is a privilege that no previous generation has enjoyed. It is therefore one of humanity’s greatest achievements. Make the most of it and come back again and again.
Bottle or glass
You know that caipirinha in the plastic cup? Ask for it to be served in your own thermal cup or in a glass or plastic cup that you use all the time so that you can reuse it on other occasions.
Lodging
Prioritize businesses that pay attention to sustainable or regenerative practices. Clean energy, banned or reduced use of plastic, recycling, use of local ingredients in gastronomy, architecture and natural ventilation are some of the aspects you can look at.
Tin, glass or plastic
On a scale of least to greatest impact, prefer tin over glass and glass over plastic.
Air conditioning
Some places on the coast (especially in the Northeast) are very windy and you can take advantage of the breeze to sleep well. Where the heat doesn’t allow it, make conscious use of the air conditioning and turn it off when you’re not in the room.
Bathing
It’s summer, so take the opportunity to have a cold and (always) short bath.
Shells and pebbles
Don’t take anything! No shells, no pebbles and never any small insects. Absolutely everything that is by the sea, in the middle of a trail or on the bank of a river is important for the local balance.
Garbage
Collect your garbage at the end of the day at the beach, take it with you and find out where to leave it to be sent for recycling.
Repellents and protectors
There are already products in this category that have less impact on the environment when dissolved in water. They are still more expensive than conventional ones, so a good search for serious brands in the so-called clean beauty industry will help you find better prices.
Prices
Agree where appropriate, but don’t bargain. Tourism workers work very hard at this time of year and deal with the seasonality of income during the rest of the year.
Loudmusic
You may not see or hear it, but there is wildlife all around you that communicates by emitting sounds. Loud speakers, as well as causing annoyance to those who don’t want to listen to other people’s music, have a huge impact on the functioning of the local ecosystem. That’s why this type of noise is called ‘noise pollution’.