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Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

The Netherlands

Protected Areas

Ooijpolder and Millingerwaard are parts of the Gelderse Poort project, focused on river restoration and nature development.

Waste Management

The Netherlands has a developed waste separation and recycling system. Use designated bins and the deposit system for bottles.

Water Conservation

Tap water in Nijmegen is safe to drink. Drink tap water over bottled water to limit plastic waste.

Environmental Considerations

The Netherlands emphasizes environmental protection and sustainability. As a traveler, you can contribute to these efforts.

Carbon Offset Options

Consider ways to lessen your carbon footprint from travel.

Sustainable travel choices

  • Air Travel: Some airlines offer carbon offset programs.
  • Train Travel: Has a lower carbon footprint than flying for intercity journeys.
  • Carbon offsetting: For flights, consider Terrapass.
  • Prioritize trains over domestic flights.

Eco-Friendly Accommodation & Tours

Choose options that prioritize environmental responsibility.

Green choices for your stay

  • Accommodation: Seek hotels or B&Bs with sustainability certifications like 'Green Key' or Ecobnb.
  • Tour Operators: Choose operators that focus on responsible tourism practices.
  • Ethical tours: Look for operators like G Adventures.
  • These groups support local conservation and ethical wildlife viewing.

Cultural Sensitivity

Cultural sensitivity nurtures respectful and meaningful interactions with local people and their heritage.

Interaction Guidelines

  • Directness: Dutch communication is direct, not rude.
  • Punctuality: Be on time for appointments and reservations.
  • Cycling Culture: Respect bike paths and traffic rules.
  • "Gezelligheid": Embrace this concept of coziness in social settings.

Photography & Religious Sites

Mind your actions when photographing and visiting sacred places.

Ethics and respect

  • Photography: Ask permission for close-ups of individuals. Respect private property.
  • Religious Sites: Dress modestly (shoulders/knees covered), maintain quiet, silence phones.
  • Avoid flash photography inside churches, especially during services.
  • Nijmegen preserves its historical buildings and Roman heritage.

Economic Impact

Support Local Businesses

Dine at local restaurants, shop at small boutiques, buy from markets, choose locally-owned accommodations.

Reusable goods at Package Free Shop

Ethical Shopping & Giving

Seek fair trade products, local crafts. For giving, research reputable local charities or NGOs. For conservation efforts, check The Rainforest Site.

Sustainable gear from Patagonia

Responsible Choices

Choose local guides for tours. Attend cultural events. Avoid activities that exploit animals or are illegal. The Netherlands has strict labor laws.