MileHacker Logo
Environmental Considerations

Environmental Considerations

West Coast, Sri Lanka

Protected Areas

Muthurajawela Marsh is a significant protected wetland. Support environmentally responsible tours that focus on wildlife and habitat.

Waste Management

Reduce your plastic use. Carry a reusable water bottle. Public recycling facilities are limited; carry recyclables until proper disposal is found.

Water Conservation

Sri Lanka experiences seasonal water shortages. Be mindful of your water usage in hotels; take shorter showers and reuse towels.

Sustainable Choices

Make choices that benefit the planet and local communities.

Offset Your Travel

Mitigate the environmental impact of your flights.

Carbon Offset Options

  • Consider donating to reputable carbon offset programs.
  • Many airlines offer this option directly when booking flights.
  • Choose independent organizations like Terrapass.
  • Look for eco-friendly products at Patagonia.

Eco-Friendly Stays & Tours

Support businesses prioritizing sustainability.

Responsible Travel Choices

  • Look for hotels that prioritize sustainable practices like solar power or water recycling.
  • Choose tour operators emphasizing responsible tourism; minimizing environmental impact and supporting locals.
  • G Adventures is an ethical tour operator focused on community benefits.
  • Find eco-friendly accommodation through Ecobnb.

Cultural Preservation

Engage respectfully with local heritage.

Ethical Engagement

  • Always treat historical sites, monuments, and religious places with respect.
  • Do not climb on ancient ruins, touch artifacts, or deface historical structures.
  • Support local crafts and traditional industries by purchasing authentic goods directly from artisans.
  • Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially children.

Ethical Practices

Ensure your visit positively impacts the destination.

Responsible Conduct

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local villages.
  • Be polite and patient. Sri Lankan culture values respect for elders and authority.
  • Avoid taking photos of military installations or sensitive government buildings. Respect privacy.
  • Remove your shoes and hats before entering temples, churches, or any other place of worship.

Supporting Local Economy

Community Tourism

Actively seek out and support locally owned guesthouses, restaurants, and tour operators.

Ethical Shopping

When purchasing tea, spices, or crafts, look for "fair trade" labels. Bargain respectfully in markets.

Shop Ethically at The Rainforest Site

Smart Eco-Tip

Carry a reusable water bottle and fill it from filtered water sources at your accommodation. This helps reduce plastic waste, a significant environmental issue in coastal areas.

Economic Impact & Ethics

Ensure your visit brings positive economic benefits to the local people and economy.

Supporting Local Businesses

Directly support the community through your choices.

Spending Wisely

  • Prioritize local restaurants, shops, and service providers over large international chains.
  • Buy souvenirs and products made in Sri Lanka rather than imported goods.
  • Choose activities that genuinely benefit local communities, like lagoon boat trips operated by local fishermen.
  • Purchase reusable products from Package Free Shop.

Avoiding Harmful Practices

Be aware of potential exploitation and make ethical choices.

Ethical Conduct

  • Child Exploitation: Do not encourage child begging. Avoid any activities that exploit children.
  • Animal Welfare: Avoid attractions involving cruelty to animals, like unethical elephant riding.
  • Begging: Direct giving to beggars may not be the most effective. Consider donating to registered charities.
  • Appropriate Charitable Giving: Research local registered charities or community organizations for effective contributions.

Responsible Travel Overview

Travel that respects the environment and local culture.

Eco-Conscious

Minimize waste, conserve water, and consider carbon offsetting for your journeys.

Culturally Aware

Engage respectfully with locals, understand customs, and preserve historical sites.

Economically Supportive

Direct your spending to local businesses and ethical initiatives.

Ethical Travel Reminder

Your choices as a traveler have a direct impact. Support ethical and local enterprises to contribute positively to the destination.