MileHacker Logo
Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Asturias, Spain

Protected Areas & Conservation

Asturias boasts extensive protected areas including Picos de Europa National Park and UNESCO Biosphere Reserves, showing a commitment to environmental protection.

Waste Management & Recycling

Spain features a developed recycling system with color-coded bins for paper, plastics, cans, and glass. Utilize these where available to minimize waste.

Water Conservation

Even with abundant rainfall, responsible water use is encouraged. Take shorter showers and reuse towels to contribute to water resource preservation.

Cultural Sensitivity

Engage respectfully with Oviedo's culture and traditions, recognizing their significance.

Cultural Preservation Efforts

Support cultural preservation by attending traditional performances, visiting local craft workshops, and engaging with festivals with an open mind.

Support Methods

  • Attend traditional music and dance performances.
  • Visit local craft workshops and purchase artisan goods.
  • Participate in local festivals with respect for customs.
  • Learn about the Asturian language (Bable).

Respectful Interaction Guidelines

Learning basic Spanish phrases, maintaining patience and politeness, and being mindful of local customs, especially concerning noise levels, contribute to respectful interactions.

Guidance for Visitors

  • A few basic Spanish phrases enhance interactions.
  • Politeness and patience in all encounters.
  • Mindfulness of noise levels in residential areas at night.
  • Avoid excessive drunkenness or rowdiness in public.

Photography Ethics & Privacy

Photography is generally permitted in public spaces. Always seek permission before photographing individuals, notably children, and respect any "no photography" signs.

Privacy & Respect in Photos

  • Always ask permission before photographing individuals.
  • Particular care for privacy when children are involved.
  • Respect "no photography" signs in sensitive areas.
  • Avoid intrusive photography that may cause discomfort.

Religious Site Etiquette

When visiting churches or other places of worship, dressing modestly, speaking quietly, and removing hats before entry demonstrate appropriate reverence.

Appropriate Conduct

  • Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees.
  • Speak quietly and maintain a respectful demeanor.
  • Do not disrupt services if in progress.
  • Remove hats before entering religious buildings.

Recommended Eco & Ethical Choices

Accommodation & Tours

Seek out eco-friendly stays like those found on Ecobnb and ethical operators such as G Adventures.

Discover Eco Stays

Gear & Carbon Offsets

Choose sustainable outdoor gear from Patagonia, reusable products from Package Free Shop, and offset emissions with Terrapass or support The Rainforest Site.

Offset Your Travel

Responsible Travel Ethos

Your mindful choices preserve Oviedo's charm and natural beauty, contributing to a lasting positive impact on the destination.

Economic Impact

Your visit contributes directly to the local community when spending with local businesses.

Community Benefit via Local Businesses

Supporting locally owned establishments directly strengthens the community. Choose hotels, restaurants, Sidrerías, and shops operated by locals.

Direct Support Methods

  • Opt for locally owned accommodations.
  • Dine at independent restaurants and Sidrerías.
  • Shop at local, independent stores.
  • Prioritize local professional services for tours.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping Options

Seek out artisan shops or local markets like Mercado El Fontán.

Authentic Purchases

  • Buy directly from artisans at local markets.
  • Look for products labeled "Hecho en Asturias" (Made in Asturias).
  • Explore local markets for fresh produce and specialties.
  • Ensure spending directly supports local livelihoods.

Appropriate Charitable Giving

If you wish to make charitable contributions, do so through established and reputable local charities. This ensures your donation supports sustainable initiatives.

Donate to Reputable Charities

Support established local organizations for impactful aid.

Avoid Direct Giving to Beggars

Direct roadside giving may inadvertently encourage begging.

Research Organizations

Identify charities that provide sustainable community support.

Positive Local Footprint

Your spending choices strengthen local jobs and preserve Oviedo's unique character and cultural identity.

Eco-Friendly Travel Gear

Travel sustainably by choosing environmentally conscious products, reducing your footprint on Asturias' natural beauty.

Sustainable Packing for Travel

Pack reusable items to minimize waste during your trip. This includes water bottles, coffee cups, and shopping bags.

Essentials for Reducing Waste

  • Bring a reusable water bottle.
  • Carry a reusable coffee cup.
  • Use a reusable shopping bag.
  • Opt for solid toiletries to reduce plastic.

Minimizing Waste During Your Trip

Conscious choices during your travels significantly contribute to waste reduction. Opt for digital tickets and minimize packaging.

Reusable Items for Daily Use

  • Carry reusable cutlery.
  • Choose unpackaged food where possible.
  • Decline unnecessary paper napkins and plastic straws.
  • Download travel guides and tickets to your phone.

Outdoor Apparel & Ethical Brands

When buying outdoor gear, prioritize brands that commit to sustainability and ethical production practices. Look for recycled materials and fair labor.

Sustainable Choices for Gear

  • Opt for durable and long-lasting outdoor wear.
  • Look for items made from recycled or organic materials.
  • Support brands with transparent supply chains and fair labor.
  • Choose products with recognized environmental certifications.

Carbon Offset Programs for Travel

Consider offsetting your flight emissions through reputable carbon offset programs. This helps lessen the environmental impact of your journey.

Mitigate Emissions on Your Journey

  • Calculate and offset your flight's carbon footprint.
  • Contribute to projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Many airlines or independent organizations offer this option.
  • Support initiatives promoting renewable energy or reforestation.

Eco-Conscious Travel Choices

Your travel choices extend to accommodation, tour operators, and sourcing, all contributing to a more sustainable journey.

Eco-Friendly Accommodation

Choose stays committed to sustainable practices like energy efficiency and waste reduction.

Responsible Tour Operators

Select operators with ethical practices that support local communities and conservation.

Local Sourcing Priority

Prioritize local products and services to support the regional economy and reduce transport emissions.

Environmental Warning: Protect Natural Sites

Dispose of all waste properly and stay on marked trails to protect Asturias' fragile natural environments and wildlife.

Green Travel Summary: Make a Positive Mark

Your choices contribute to preserving Asturias' natural and cultural heritage, making your journey meaningful and beneficial for all.