Environmental Stewardship: Kent

Protected Landscapes

The Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) covers a significant part of the county, protecting habitats.

Heritage Preservation

Many of Kent's historic houses and coastal areas are managed by conservation charities. Your entry fees and memberships directly contribute to their preservation.

Local Conservation

Support local organizations like the Kent Wildlife Trust through donations or by visiting their reserves.

Responsible Practices

Your actions contribute to the environmental health of Kent.

Waste Management

Minimize waste by using reusable items and sorting recycling.

Eco-Friendly Habits

Reduce waste with reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and shopping bags. Find bottles here.
Look for designated recycling bins for different waste types.
Properly dispose of all waste; littering carries fines.
Consider sustainable products from Package Free Shop.

Resource Conservation

Mindful use of resources preserves them for future enjoyment.

Conservation Efforts

Be mindful of your water usage during your stay.
Support eco-friendly accommodations like those on Ecobnb.
Offset carbon emissions from flights with Terrapass.
Choose sustainable outdoor gear from Patagonia.

Sustainable Tourism

Your travel choices play a part in minimizing environmental impact.

Ethical Operators

Opt for ethical tour operators, like G Adventures, promoting responsible travel.
Look for hotels and B&Bs with green certifications.
Choose businesses that clearly state their environmental policies.
Support organizations dedicated to conservation, such as The Rainforest Site.

Carbon Footprint Reduction

Actively reduce your carbon impact during your travels.

Sustainable Choices

Invest in carbon offset programs for your flights and ground transportation.
Opt for public transport, walking, or cycling whenever feasible.
Minimize energy usage in your accommodation (lights, heating).
Choose local produce to reduce food miles.

Eco-Friendly Initiatives

Flight Offsets

Invest in carbon offset programs for your transportation choices.

Learn more about Terrapass

Green Stays

Look for accommodations with green certifications or stated environmental policies.

Find eco-friendly stays on Ecobnb

Sustainable Living

Sticking to marked paths, avoiding litter, and being mindful of water usage protects Kent's landscapes. Supporting local conservation efforts also aids the county's green initiatives.

Cultural Sensitivity

Engage with Kent's heritage and communities respectfully.

Cultural Preservation

Kent's historic sites, traditions, and arts thrive with your respectful engagement.

Support Heritage

Your respectful engagement and financial contributions support local trusts.
Entry fees to sites like Canterbury Cathedral aid preservation efforts.
Many historic houses and gardens are managed by conservation charities.
Consider supporting The Rainforest Site for conservation initiatives.

Respectful Interactions

Adhering to local social norms fosters positive exchanges.

Social Grace

Politeness, queuing, and saying "please" and "thank you" receive high value.
Respect personal space in conversations and public areas.
Be mindful of noise levels in quiet residential areas or historic sites.
Waiting patiently in line ("queuing") marks a strong cultural norm.

Photography Ethics & Taboos

Be mindful of permissions and privacy when capturing moments.

Permission First

Always ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially in rural areas.

Site Rules

Adhere to "no photography" or "no flash photography" signs in museums, galleries, or sacred spaces.

Children's Privacy

Never photograph children without the express permission of their parents or guardians.

Economic Contribution

Responsible travel positively impacts Kent's local economy and communities.

Community Support

Support initiatives that directly benefit local communities.

Local Benefits

Stay in locally owned B&Bs and independent accommodations.
Eat at independent restaurants rather than large chains.
Participate in tours run by local guides.
Choosing local businesses keeps money within the Kent economy.

Ethical Shopping

Prioritize fair trade and local options when making purchases.

Conscious Purchases

Buy food and drink from local farmers' markets and farm shops.
Purchase souvenirs from local artisan workshops and boutiques.
This supports local craftspeople and producers.
Seek out "Kentish Made" products for unique, locally-supporting souvenirs.

Ethical Choices

Your choices shape the positive economic influence of your journey.

Avoiding Exploitation

Avoid purchasing souvenirs that exploit local labor or endanger species.

Begging & Support

Consider donating to local charities supporting homeless people rather than direct giving.

Charitable Giving

Donate to registered Kent charities focusing on environmental conservation, heritage, or community.

Harmful Practices Alert

Avoid supporting any forms of exploitation, including unethical souvenirs or practices that undermine local livelihoods. Your informed choices make a difference.

Environmental Stewardship