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

Conservation Efforts

Support initiatives working to protect Bahamian biodiversity.

Waste & Water

Reduce your environmental footprint by minimizing waste and water usage.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Opt for lodging and excursions that champion sustainable practices.

Protected & Conserved

Discover the organizations and methods dedicated to safeguarding The Bahamas' natural heritage.

Bahamas Conservation

organizations driving environmental preservation.

Nature's Guardians

Bahamas Frequently For heritage sites (BNT): Manages national preserves and protected areas.
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Safeguard coral reefs, fish nurseries, and endangered species.
Atlantis' Dolphin Cay: Functions as a rescue and rehabilitation facility for marine animals.
The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood) supports conservation.

Your Green Contribution

Ways travelers can reduce their environmental impact.

Conscious Travel

Reusable Water Bottle: Reduce single-use-use plastic waste.
Reusable Shopping Bag: Reduce plastic bag consumption.
Water Conservation: Take shorter showers, turn off taps.
Energy Use: Be mindful of energy consumption in accommodations.

Sustainable Stay & Play

Choose alternatives that align with eco-friendly principles.

Conscious Choices

Eco-friendly Accommodation: Look for hotels with linen reuse and energy efficiency.
Ecobnb: Explore eco-friendly accommodation booking options.
Responsible Tour Operators: Inquire about protecting marine life policies for tours.
Clifton Heritage National Park: Supports preservation and cultural preservation.

Carbon Footprint & Gear

Offset your travel and equip yourself responsibly.

Mitigating Impact

Carbon Offset: Consider programs like Terrapass for flight emissions.
Direct Flights: Choose flights straight to minimize carbon emissions.
Sustainable Gear: Retailers like Patagonia for outdoor clothing.
Reusable Products: Explore options from Package Free Shop.

Environmental Practices Overview

Waste Management

Landfills are the main disposal method; recycling infrastructure has limitations.

Water Sources

The Bahamas depends on energy-intensive desalination for drinking water.

Responsible Practices

Choose consciously.

Cultural Connection

Engage respectfully with Bahamian culture plus residents for a meaningful travel experience.

Preserving Heritage

Initiatives dedicated to maintaining Bahamian cultural identity.

Cultural Institutions

Bahamas Historical Society: Operates to preserve and promote local history.
National Art Gallery of The Bahamas: Showcases Bahamian artistic expression.
Junkanoo: Actively preserved and celebrated as a national cultural tradition.

Respectful Interactions

Rules for polite and good exchanges with locals.

Social Graces

Greetings: Always start with "Hello/afternoon/evening."
"Island Time": Embrace a more relaxed lifestyle with patience.
Dress Code: Dress appropriately in public spaces outside beach zones.

Visual Ethics

Consider privacy and consent when capturing images.

Photography Guidelines

Always ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
Respect "no photography" signs on private property.
Be mindful of privacy in residential areas.

Religious Etiquette

Show reverence when visiting sacred spaces.

Visiting Churches

Dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered.
Be hushed and respectful during services.
Avoid flash photography during services.

Economic & Ethical Impact

Support local businesses and understand ethical practices.

Community Tourism

Support local guesthouses and family-family-owned eateries like at Fish Fry.

Ethical Shopping

Seek out 'Bahamian made' products and directly from artisans.

Avoid Exploitation

Select trustworthy animal encounters; illegal drug use carries severe penalties.

Connect & Appreciate

Your engagement with Bahamian culture and communities greatly enhances your travel experience.

Supporting the Local Economy

Your choices as a traveler contribute positively to Bahamian communities.

Local Support Opportunities

1

Local Dining

Eat at local eateries and food stalls like Fish Fry or Potter's Cay Dock.

2

Local Shopping

Purchase souvenirs directly from local artisans at the Straw Market or craft shops.

3

Local Transport

Utilize local taxi cab drivers and jitneys for your transport needs.

Fair Trade & Local Products

Seek out products labeled 'Bahamian made' to ensure local origin.
Shop at small craft shops for unique, artisan products.
Support local farmers by buying fresh produce from markets like Potter's Cay Dock.
Avoid large-scale-produced imported souvenirs where local alternatives exist.
Look for authenticity in craftsmanship and materials.
Consider cultural significance when choosing items.

Ethical Travel Practices

Research reputable operators for marine animal encounters, checking welfare practices.
Say no to activities that exploit animals, like holding baby animals for photos.
Be aware that illegal drug use carries severe penalties.
If approached for begging, use discretion and consider supporting charities.
Support local charities working on education, environment, or social welfare.

Traveler's Economic Footprint

Direct Support

Your spending directly funds Bahamian families and local businesses.

Community Benefits

Local tourism fosters job creation and economic growth.

Authentic Experiences

Engaging locally creates more genuine and memorable travel moments.

Invest in Local

Choosing regional goods and services contributes directly to the prosperity of the Bahamian people.

Sustainable Travel in Nassau