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Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Graubunden, Switzerland

Protected Areas

The Engadin valley is a natural treasure. Efforts focus on maintaining water quality, preserving biodiversity, and managing natural resources responsibly. The Swiss National Park has strict rules: stay on marked trails, do not pick plants, do not litter, do not disturb wildlife.

Waste & Recycling

Switzerland has very efficient and comprehensive recycling systems. Separate bins are common. Tourists use designated bins and avoid littering. Fines for littering are substantial. When hiking, pack out everything you pack in.

Water Conservation

Switzerland has abundant water resources, but conservation is still important. The excellent quality of tap water makes carrying a Reusable water bottle a good choice. Refill from taps and public fountains instead of buying Bottled water.

Environmental Considerations

The Engadin valley is a natural wonder, and efforts are made to protect its delicate alpine ecosystems. Your actions help these efforts.

Conservation Initiatives

The Engadin valley commits to sustainable tourism. Conservation efforts focus on water quality, biodiversity, and responsible natural resource management. Local efforts balance tourism with environmental protection.

Areas of Focus

  • Maintaining high water quality in lakes and rivers.
  • Preserving alpine biodiversity and habitats.
  • Responsible management of forests and natural areas.
  • Protecting wildlife in their natural environment.

Sustainable Travel Choices

Your travel decisions have a positive environmental impact. Consider how you move and where you stay.

Green Choices

  • Utilize Swiss public transport (trains, buses) for lower carbon footprint.
  • Rhätische Bahn runs on hydropower, making it an eco-friendly option.
  • Choose accommodations with sustainability certifications like Ibex Fairstay or Swisstainable.
  • Consider carbon offset programs offered by airlines or providers like Terrapass.

Eco-Friendly Gear & Goods

Support sustainability by choosing responsible products for your journey.

Conscious Consumption

Eco-Friendly Stays & Tours

Choosing where you sleep and who guides you also makes a difference.

Sustainable Choices

  • Look for hotels with "Ibex Fairstay" or "Swisstainable" labels.
  • Many mountain huts prioritize local sourcing, energy efficiency.
  • Book eco-friendly accommodation through platforms like Ecobnb.
  • Choose tour operators emphasizing responsible tourism.

Support Local Initiatives

Community Tourism

Choose locally owned businesses. Stay in local guesthouses or family-run hotels. Use local guides for activities.

Ethical Shopping

Look for "Swiss made" products. Purchase souvenirs from local artisan shops. Avoid counterfeit goods.

Environmental Note:

Carry a small bag for your trash when hiking and dispose of it properly in designated bins. Do not leave any waste behind in nature.

Cultural Sensitivity

Your interaction with local culture and communities can be a highlight of your journey.

Cultural Preservation

Efforts are significant in the Engadin to preserve traditional architecture, especially Engadin houses with sgraffito decorations, in villages like Guarda and Zuoz.

Local Heritage

  • Preserving unique traditional architecture.
  • Active preservation of the Romansh language.
  • Showing interest in Romansh phrases ("Allegra") is appreciated.
  • Romansh is one of Switzerland's four national languages.

Respectful Interactions

Your conduct impacts local perceptions.

Interaction Guidelines

  • Be polite and greet locals (a simple "Grüezi" or "Allegra").
  • Respect personal space and queues.
  • Photography: Avoid close-up photos of individuals without permission.
  • If photographing events, do so respectfully and discreetly.

Religious Site Etiquette

When visiting churches or other religious sites, modest dress and quiet conduct are expected. Observe specific rules regarding photography.

Dress Code

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when entering religious sites.

Quiet Conduct

Maintain quiet and respect during services or times of worship. Minimize noise.

Photography Rules

Some sites prohibit photography; always check for "no photography" signs and follow instructions.

Community Support:

By patronizing local businesses, you contribute directly to the livelihoods of residents and keep money within the community.

Economic Impact

Your travel choices have a direct positive influence on the local economy and communities in St. Moritz and the Engadin. Supporting local businesses is a straightforward way to contribute.

Community-Based Tourism

While St. Moritz a luxury destination, you can still support community initiatives. Your choices make a difference.

Supporting Local

  • Stay in locally owned guesthouses or smaller, family-run hotels.
  • Utilize local guides for hiking, skiing, or other activities.
  • Purchase goods and services from independent local businesses.
  • Engage with local residents and learn about their way of life.
This keeps tourism revenue within the community.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

Make ethical shopping choices by seeking out authentic local products and supporting fair practices.

Conscious Purchases

  • Look for "Swiss made" labels to ensure authentic local goods.
  • Buy souvenirs and gifts from local artisan shops or small businesses.
  • Avoid purchasing counterfeit goods.
  • Support businesses that display ethical sourcing practices.

Supporting Local Businesses

Patronizing local establishments puts money directly into the hands of residents and strengthens the local economy.

Dining & Groceries

  • Dine at locally owned restaurants, cafes, and bakeries.
  • Purchase groceries from local supermarkets (Coop, Migros).
  • Seek out specialty food shops for regional delicacies.

Activities & Services

  • Rent ski or bike equipment from local sports shops.
  • Book tours or lessons with local instructors and guides.
  • Use local taxi services when needed.

Switzerland's high labor standards and robust legal framework generally prevent issues of exploitation in the tourism sector.

Ethical Awareness

  • Strong legal frameworks protect workers' rights.
  • Tourism sector operates under strict regulations.
  • You are unlikely to encounter issues of exploitation in St. Moritz.

Positive Community Impact

Your conscious travel choices contribute to the well-being and prosperity of the local community. It promotes sustainable development.

Contributing Factors

  • Direct financial contribution to local residents.
  • Support for the preservation of local culture and traditions.
  • Fostering local entrepreneurship and small businesses.
  • Encouraging a positive relationship between visitors and locals.

Ethical Travel Reminder

Be Informed

Stay aware of global human rights and environmental issues. This helps in making ethical travel decisions wherever you go.

Choose Wisely

Your choice of travel companies, accommodations, and activities has a broad impact. Opt for those with clear ethical policies.

Support Local Tip:

Whenever possible, choose locally owned restaurants, shops, and tour operators. This supports community members who rely on tourism for their livelihoods.