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Sustainable Travel in Borneo

Protected Areas

Numerous national parks and wildlife reserves dot Borneo's landscape.

Waste Management

Recycling infrastructure varies; minimize your plastic use.

Water Conservation

Shortage of water can occur; be mindful of your usage.

Environmental Choices

Your behavior as a tourist support conservation efforts.

Protected Area Support

Support conservation by visiting officially sanctioned sites and choosing reputable tour operators.

Support Conservation

  • Kinabalu Park, Danum Valley, Tanjung Puting.
  • Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre.
  • Choose operators adhering to conservation principles.
  • Look for certifications or clear environmental policies.

Waste Reduction

Reduce plastic consumption by using a reusable water bottle. Dispose of waste responsibly.

Responsible Disposal

  • Recycling infrastructure still developing.
  • Many places offer refills for bottles.
  • Avoid littering, especially in natural settings.
  • Find reusable products at Package Free Shop.

Carbon Offset Options

Consider supporting carbon offset programs to mitigate the environmental impact of your flights.

Mitigate Impact

  • Programs by airlines or third-party organizations.
  • Contribute to projects that reduce greenhouse gases.
  • Find out more about offsetting at Terrapass.
  • Voluntary contributions for a greener journey.

Eco-Friendly Accommodation & Tours

Choose lodges and tour companies with demonstrated commitments to sustainability.

Sustainable Travel

  • Explore eco-friendly stays on Ecobnb.
  • Prioritize responsible wildlife viewing.
  • Ethical tour operators like G Adventures.
  • Sustainable outdoor gear from Patagonia.

Eco-Travel Resources

Sustainable Gear

For outdoor adventures, opt for gear that supports environmental protection and humane manufacturing.

Shop Patagonia

Conservation Support

Directly contribute to rainforest conservation efforts through their initiatives.

Visit The Rainforest Site

Cultural Sensitivity

Interacting respectfully with local cultures is a core part of responsible travel.

Cultural Preservation Efforts

Support cultural villages and classic handicraftspeople. Attend authentic cultural performances.

Support Local Culture

  • Patronage sustains cultural practices.
  • Distinguish authentic performances from tourist-only shows.
  • Visit living museums and heritage centers.
  • Engage with local artisans.

Respectful Interaction Guidelines

Modest dress is advisable, especially in religious sites or rural villages.

Guidelines

  • Always ask permission before taking photos of people.
  • Remove shoes when entering homes, some shops, or religious sites.
  • Use only your right hand when eating, giving, or receiving items.
  • Bargain politely and with a smile in markets.

Photography Ethics & Privacy

Be mindful of people's privacy. Avoid taking photos of military installations or sensitive government buildings.

Permissions & Privacy

  • Some sacred sites may prohibit photography.
  • Children's privacy is notably important.
  • Respect designated no-photography zones.
  • Seek verbal permission when possible.

Religious Site Etiquette

Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering.

Respectful Conduct

  • Avoid visiting during prayer times if not participating.
  • Keep your voice low and maintain a respectful demeanor.
  • Observe local customs specific to every location.
  • Avoid loud noises or disruptive behavior.

Cultural Practices

A summary of essential techniques for positive cultural interactions.

Dress Modestly

Cover shoulders and knees, especially outside tourist zones.

Ask Permission

Always ask before taking photos of individuals.

Use Right Hand

For eating or passing items, use your right hand.

Mindful Interactions

Embracing local customs enriches your travel and respects the people and places you encounter.

Economic Impact

Your travel choices create a direct economic impact on local communities.

Community-Based Tourism

Seek out and support tours or accommodations directly owned and operated by local communities.

Direct Support

  • Benefits remain within the local economy.
  • Directly supports residents' livelihoods.
  • Sustainable income generation.
  • Fosters local entrepreneurship.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

Purchase craftwork and souvenirs directly from artisans or from reputable shops.

Fair Trade

  • Supports fair wages for producers.
  • Avoid items made from endangered species.
  • Support ethical production.
  • Look for fair trade labels.

Support Local Businesses

Eat at local restaurants, shop at local markets, and hire local guides.

Local Livelihoods

  • Dine at family-owned eateries.
  • Purchase goods from local vendors.
  • Engage guides from the community.

Avoiding Harmful Practices

Avoid activities that involve direct contact with or exploitation of wildlife.

Responsible Choices

  • No holding baby orangutans or riding elephants.
  • Avoid giving money directly to beggars, particularly for kids.
  • Choose excursions that prioritize animal welfare.

Appropriate Charitable Giving

If you wish to donate, do so through established, reputable non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

Research Organizations

Focus on those working in conservation, education, or community development.

Sustainable Impact

Contributions have a lasting and positive effect.

Direct Community Aid

This avoids perpetuating cycles of poverty.

Ethical Considerations

Making choices that align with responsible tourism prevents exploitation and encourages a positive local economic contribution.

Economic Responsibility

Support local economies via mindful spending and choosing ethical tourism providers.

Sustainable Travel in Borneo. Eco-Friendly, Responsible Tourism, Conservation