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Environmental Stewardship

Environmental Stewardship

Croatia

Biokovo Nature Park

This protected area behind Makarska needs visitors to stick to marked trails, not disturb wildlife, and not pick plants.

Waste Management

Croatia has a developing recycling system. Look for separate bins for plastic, paper, and glass.

Water Conservation

Tap water in Makarska is safe to drink, but water resources can be under strain. Be mindful of your usage.

Responsible Practices

Adopt mindful practices to minimize your environmental footprint while exploring Makarska.

Conservation Initiatives

The Adriatic Sea is a sensitive ecosystem. Support efforts to protect marine life and prevent pollution.

Protecting Nature

  • Support initiatives promoting clean seas and beaches.
  • Adhere to all park rules in Biokovo Nature Park.
  • Minimize your energy consumption.
  • Take shorter showers and turn off taps when not in use.

Waste Reduction

Reduce plastic consumption by using reusable items and actively participating in recycling.

Eco-Friendly Habits

Carbon Offset Choices

Mitigate your travel carbon footprint by choosing direct flights and local transport options.

Lowering Emissions

  • Choose direct flights to lower emissions.
  • Utilize public transport, walk, or cycle within Makarska.
  • Support airlines or travel agencies offering verified carbon offset programs like Terrapass.
  • Look for eco-certifications when booking travel.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Opt for accommodations and tour operators that prioritize environmental responsibility.

Conscious Travel

  • Look for accommodations with energy-saving and waste reduction measures, like Ecobnb.
  • Choose tour operators emphasizing small group sizes and respect for nature.
  • Support ethical tour operators like G Adventures.
  • Consider sustainable outdoor gear from brands like Patagonia.

Ethical Shopping & Support

Local Crafts

Purchase souvenirs and crafts directly from local artisans at markets or small workshops.

Explore Ethical Options

Local Produce

Look for locally produced food items like olive oil, honey, cheese, and wine at the Makarska Green Market.

Cultural Sensitivity

Interacting respectfully with local culture enriches your travel experience and fosters positive connections.

Cultural Preservation

Support local museums, cultural centers, and traditional events that work to preserve Croatian heritage.

Engaging with Heritage

  • Visit local museums and cultural centers.
  • Respect historical sites; do not climb on ruins or deface monuments.
  • Attend traditional events to experience local heritage.
  • Gain insight into Croatian history and traditions.

Respectful Interactions

Learning a few basic Croatian phrases is appreciated. Be polite and patient in your interactions.

Visitor Guidelines

  • Be polite and patient in your interactions.
  • Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
  • Ask before photographing people, especially children.
  • Avoid loud or disruptive behavior in residential areas.

Photography Ethics

Do not take photos of private property without permission. Be mindful of privacy when photographing people.

Considerate Snaps

  • Respect privacy for private property.
  • Be especially mindful of children's privacy.
  • Avoid unauthorized photography of sensitive locations.
  • If in doubt, refrain or ask for permission.

Religious Site Conduct

Dress modestly, speak quietly, and do not disturb services. Check for photography rules.

Sacred Spaces

  • Shoulders and knees covered when entering churches.
  • Speak quietly to maintain reverence.
  • Do not disturb ongoing services or private prayers.
  • Some churches prohibit flash photography; look for signs.

Economic Impact

Support the local economy directly and make a positive financial contribution.

Community Initiatives

Support guesthouses and apartments run by local families. Participate in tours by local guides.

Local Businesses

Dine at traditional konobas and family-run restaurants. Shop at local bakeries and independent stores.

Ethical Choices

Be cautious of aggressive street vendors or unregulated operators. Avoid animal exploitation.

Positive Financial Contribution

Support local artisans and businesses to ensure your money directly benefits the people living in Makarska, contributing to their prosperity.

Economic Impact & Responsible Giving

Support the local economy directly and make a positive financial contribution during your visit.

Community Tourism

Support accommodations and tours that directly benefit local families, fostering sustainable growth.

Direct Support

  • Stay in guesthouses or apartments run by local families ('sobe').
  • Participate in tours led by local guides.
  • Buy souvenirs directly from local artisans at markets.
  • Dine at traditional konobas and family-run restaurants.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

Ensure your purchases support fair practices and local producers, contributing to local prosperity.

Conscious Spending

  • Look for locally produced food items like olive oil, honey, cheese, and wine.
  • Shop at the Makarska Green Market for fresh local produce.
  • Use local taxi services instead of international ride-sharing apps if possible.
  • This keeps money within the local economy.

Avoiding Exploitation

Be cautious of practices that may be harmful or exploitative, maintaining ethical travel.

Ethical Awareness

  • Be cautious of overly aggressive street vendors.
  • Avoid unregulated tour operators.
  • Do not engage in activities that exploit animals.
  • Avoid contributing to any form of illegal trade.

Appropriate Charitable Giving

If you wish to donate, research reputable local charities or organizations working on environmental protection or social welfare.

Responsible Donations

  • Research reputable local charities for environmental protection.
  • Or social welfare initiatives.
  • Give directly to these organizations for impactful contributions.
  • Avoid giving money to beggars on the street; this can perpetuate issues.

Economic Insights

Local Craft Benefits

Purchasing local crafts directs money to the artisans and supports traditional skills.

Market Fresh

Buying fresh produce at the Green Market supports local farmers and seasonal agriculture.

Urgent Local Contacts

For any emergencies, dial 112 for general emergencies, 192 for police, 193 for fire, and 194 for ambulance services.

Comprehensive Contribution

By practicing cultural sensitivity and supporting the local economy, visitors contribute positively to Makarska's community and its ongoing efforts in sustainable tourism.