Article written by Sara and João, founders of the No Footprint Nomads project.

Did you know that 20% of the environmental impact on travel is due to the choice of accommodation and food? 3.3 billion tonnes of CO₂ are emitted into the atmosphere because of food waste. In the case of the hotel industry, about 1/4 of all food that passes through the hotel’s kitchen is thrown away. So is it better to stay home?

Traveling is education and we defend the choice to go on an adventure. As long-term travellers, we know that it is possible to reduce our footprint when traveling. That is why we created the No Footprint Nomads project in order to share our experience and help others who want to travel in a sustainable way.

Why should I worry about food waste when traveling?

Traveling has an impact. The way we eat while traveling has repercussions on the local economy and environment. Remember that you need land, water, fertilizers, labour, transportation and refrigeration until the food reaches your plate. In all these steps, there are foods that are spoiled, not to mention the rest that goes to waste because it has not been consumed.

What can I do?

. Eat only what you need

Put only what you are going to eat on the plate. The temptation to stack the included breakfast food is great, but it is more likely to be too full to finish everything on your plate.

Practice hara hachi bu, a Japanese concept that teaches you to eat until you are 80% satisfied. The Blue Zones website recommends eating slowly, focusing on the act of eating, and using smaller plates and glasses. The body and the environment will be grateful.

. Take your take-away container with you

Simple: take a container with you when you go out to eat. What’s left, you can ask to take away. You prevent the food from going to waste and save it in the plastic packaging.

Nowadays, taking leftovers home is fancy. What is shameful is to let good food spoil itself. On our website you can find more ideas on how to reduce your impact when eating out.

. Think local

This is the time to venture out. Research the local varieties and plan to go to restaurants that serve traditional meals.

Buy in street markets or contact associations that promote the sale of products in the area. Facebook groups are great for finding these initiatives.

Eating locally reduces waste in food production and transportation, supports local agriculture and economics and is delicious!

. Choose where to stay

The choice of a hotel or Airbnb is perhaps the most relevant in the environmental footprint of your trip. Research green accommodation with a policy of reducing food waste and environmental impact.

Choosing accommodation that offers a vegetarian menu or rich in options made with plants also helps to reduce your footprint.

Nowadays, the options are increasingly varied and economical. Search for your next accommodation on sites like Book Different or Eco BnB.

Helping the environment has never been easier. With so much information and resources available, all you have to do is take the first step: start applying one of these tips on your next trip.

If you were inspired and willing to learn more, ask for our e-book with tips on how to travel sustainably (in English).

Have great trips!