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Sustainable Travel in Pyongyang

Protected Areas

Myohyangsan, a popular day trip, is a protected natural area. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of natural environments, stay on designated paths, and refrain from littering. Your guides reinforce these expectations.

Waste Management

Basic waste management remains in place. Tourists are encouraged to minimize waste and dispose of it properly in designated bins. Recycling facilities for tourists are limited, so reducing consumption provides the best approach.

Water Conservation

Water conservation practices are universally sound. General conservation, like taking shorter showers and turning off taps, always proves advisable, regardless of location.

Eco-Conscious Travel Options

While direct "eco-friendly" options within the DPRK are limited, global tools support responsible tourism.

Accommodation & Tours

The concept of "eco-friendly" as a main focus for state-run tourism in the DPRK holds limited prominence.

Ecobnb for Inspiration

  • Hotels remain state-owned, and tours function within existing infrastructure.
  • For future travels, explore sustainable stays through Ecobnb.
  • This resource guides you to eco-conscious choices globally.
  • Research sustainable practices for all your journeys.

Carbon Offsetting

Carbon offset options for transportation are not offered by DPRK tour operators.

Terrapass for Offsets

  • Travelers concerned about their carbon footprint offset international flights independently.
  • Terrapass provides solutions for carbon offsetting.
  • Consider your environmental footprint for all travel stages.
  • Embrace sustainable travel traditions in all aspects.

Sustainable Gear

Prepare for your travels with durable and ethically produced outdoor gear.

Patagonia Gear

  • Invest in high-quality outdoor clothing and gear.
  • Brands like Patagonia focus on environmental responsibility.
  • Choose products designed for longevity and hardly any environmental impact.
  • Support companies committed to sustainability.

Reusable Products

Reduce single-use-use items to reduce your personal waste footprint during travel.

Package Free Shop

  • Bring a refillable water bottle and coffee cup.
  • Explore travel-sized reusable toiletries and solid bars.
  • Find essentials at Package Free Shop.
  • A conscious choice reduces waste generation.

Ethical Tours & Conservation

G Adventures

For future travel, consider operators like G Adventures, known for principled and sustainable tours globally.

Explore G Adventures

The Rainforest Site

Support global conservation efforts through organizations such as The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood).

Support Rainforest Conservation

Cultural Sensitivity in Pyongyang

Cultural sensitivity holds deep significance when visiting Pyongyang. Your actions and behavior reflect on your country and influence your experience.

Cultural Preservation Efforts

The DPRK government actively preserves historical sites and cultural heritage, like the Koryo Institution in Kaesong.

Respectful Visits

  • Your visits to these sites contribute to their maintenance and preservation.
  • Observe artifacts and structures with a respectful demeanor.
  • Comply with all guidelines presented via your tour guides at heritage sites sites.

Respectful Interaction Guidelines

Always follow your guides' instructions precisely. They serve as a key point of contact and authority.

Guided Conduct

  • Show deference for the leaders and their monuments through appropriate attire and behavior.
  • Avoid drawing undue attention through loud behavior or inappropriate dress.
  • Do not attempt to connect with residents without your escort present.

Photography Ethics and Privacy

Always seek permission from your guides before taking photos. Assume photography remains restricted unless explicitly told otherwise.

Visual Respect

  • Respect people's privacy; avoid candid photos without express consent.
  • Do not capture photos that may appear unflattering, disrespectful, or portray poverty.
  • Ensure images of the leaders always show in their entirety, uncropped.

Religious Site Etiquette

When visiting religious sites like Pohyon Temple, exercise deference.

Temple Protocol

  • Wear modest attire and speak quietly.
  • Do not disrupt any amenities if they occur.
  • Remove your footwear if required before entering specific areas.

Economic Impact of Pyongyang Tourism

Travel to North Korea has an intricate ethical question for many. Travelers acknowledge that their funds directly support the government.

Community-Based Initiatives

Community-based tourism initiatives are not available for travelers in North Korea.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

The concept of fair trade, as understood in The west of economies, does not apply in this context.

Supporting Local Businesses

All tourist-facing businesses remain state-run; spending directly benefits the government.

Ethical Considerations

Avoiding any actions that may seem disrespectful or attempting to avoid official channels bears importance.

Economic Impact & Responsible Travel

Local Business Support

All sightseers-facing businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops, operate under state control.

Direct Support for the State

  • Supporting "local businesses" in the conventional sense is not considered an option.
  • Your spending directly aids the government.
  • This economic model differs significantly from market economies.
  • Remain aware of this financial framework during your visit.

Community-Based Tourism

Community-based tourism initiatives, directly involving and benefiting local communities at a grassroots level, are not available for tourists.

State-Controlled Tourism Model

  • All tourism operations are state-controlled.
  • Immediate monetary interaction with individual citizens remains restricted.
  • Your itinerary and activities remain fully managed by official entities.
  • This model has an unique approach to tourism globally.

Appropriate Charitable Giving

Do not attempt to give money or gifts directly to individuals during your visit.

Official Channels for Donations

  • If a tourist wishes to make a donation, discussion with the tour operator holds priority.
  • This ensures it reaches its intended purpose through approved official channels.
  • Unauthorized giving may unintentionally create difficulties.
  • Any gifts or aid travel through established mechanisms.

Fair Trade and Ethical Shopping

Shopping for tourists remains restricted to state-run tourist shops.

  • The concept of fair trade, as understood in Western economies, does not apply.
  • Purchases made directly sustain the state economy.
  • This differs from consumer choices in market-driven systems.
  • All souvenir and commerce activities are centrally managed.

Mindful Traveler's Responsibility

Travel to North Korea prompts travelers to acknowledge that their funds directly support the government.

Respectful Conduct

Avoid any actions that could be seen as disrespectful.

Authorized Interactions

Do not attempt to bypass official channels or engage in unauthorized interactions with locals.

Consequences of Actions

Such actions carry serious repercussions for the two traveler and local citizens.

Traveler Responsibility

Adherence to regulations and guide instructions remains absolutely mandatory for a secure and smooth journey.

Engaging Respectfully

Approaching your visit with an open mind and a commitment to cultural deference greatly enriches your experience.

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