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Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Basilicata, Italy

Protected Areas

The Parco della Murgia Materana works to preserve the unique natural landscape and ancient cave dwellings.

Waste Management

Italy has progressed in recycling. Matera has separate bins for different waste types.

Water Use

Responsible water use is encouraged. Turn off lights and air conditioning when leaving.

Cultural Sensitivity

Matera's rebirth relies on respecting its profound history and the local community that calls it home.

Cultural Preservation

Matera’s transformation from past conditions to a celebrated UNESCO site represents major success in cultural preservation. Your visit supports these ongoing efforts.

Interactions

  • Support preservation efforts through conscious action.
  • Polite greetings improve local interaction.
  • Practice patience with local service rhythms.
  • Maintain quiet voices in public spaces, especially residential Sassi areas.

Site Respect

Mindful photography and religious site etiquette show respect for local traditions and privacy.

Photography & Etiquette

  • Request permission before photographing individuals.
  • Respect privacy near residential cave dwellings.
  • Observe "No Photos" signs; flash off in churches.
  • Modest dress (covered shoulders/knees) in churches.

Adherence & Impact

Adherence to rules and recognition of your visitor footprint helps maintain Matera's delicate environment.

Visitor Guidelines

  • Stay on marked trails in protected areas.
  • Avoid littering and picking plants.
  • Excessive foot traffic damages the delicate Sassi environment.
  • Improper waste disposal also causes harm.

Responsible Consumption

Conscious choices regarding resource use and waste further contribute to Matera's well-being.

Resource Wisdom

  • Turn off lights and air conditioning when leaving.
  • Take shorter showers.
  • Responsible water use is always encouraged.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.

Sustainable Resources

Eco-Friendly Stays

Find accommodations promoting sustainable practices.

Ecobnb

Carbon Offsetting

Offset the carbon footprint of your flights to Italy.

Terrapass

Responsible Travel

Your choices directly contribute to the preservation of Matera's unique heritage.

Economic Impact

Your travel choices directly shape the local economy.

Local Support

Choose locally owned and operated accommodations, restaurants, and tour companies.

Direct Benefit

  • Patronize local restaurants, cafes, and shops.
  • Buy your bread from a local Matera bakery.
  • Purchase your cheese from the market.
  • This places tourism money directly with residents.

Ethical Choices

Awareness of local dynamics aids in making ethical choices and avoiding harmful practices.

Practices to Avoid

  • Be aware of overly pushy vendors.
  • Politically decline if a situation feels exploitative or uncomfortable.
  • Avoid engaging in activities that exploit people or animals.
  • Research reputable charities instead of giving directly to beggars.

Mindful Consumption

When purchasing souvenirs or gifts, products by local artisans support traditional crafts.

Sustainable Gear

Choose eco-conscious outdoor equipment. Patagonia

Zero Waste Options

Discover reusable travel products. Package Free Shop

Ethical Tours

Select operators committed to responsible tourism. G Adventures

Important Consideration

Giving directly to street beggars can sometimes discourage positive social change.

Dining Suggestion

Look for small, family-run trattorias for authentic food and direct local support.