Environmental Care: The Pacific Northwest

Protected Areas

Numerous national parks, national forests, and state parks have conservation mandates. Stay on marked trails and respect wildlife.

Waste Management

Recycling is widely practiced. Look for separate bins for mixed recycling and compost in public spaces, hotels, and restaurants.

Water Conservation

Some areas experience dry conditions. Be mindful of water use during your stay. Take shorter showers and turn off taps when not in use.

Sustainable Choices

Make choices that support environmental responsibility and ethical practices during your travels.

Carbon Footprint Awareness

Think about ways to lessen your carbon footprint from travel. Purchase carbon offsets for your flights.

Reducing Emissions

Many airlines or third-party organizations have carbon offset options, like Terrapass.
Utilize public transportation, walk, or cycle when possible.
Pick direct flights to reduce emissions.
Some local tour operators have carbon-neutral tours.

Eco-Friendly Accommodation & Tours

Support businesses that prioritize environmental responsibility.

Green Choices

Look for hotels with environmental certifications (e.g., LEED, Green Seal). For eco-friendly lodging, check Ecobnb.
Choose properties that promote sustainable practices.
Select tour operators committed to sustainable practices.
For ethical tours, explore G Adventures.

Cultural Preservation Efforts

Ensure your purchases directly benefit the artists and cultural preservation efforts.

Supporting Heritage

Seek out reputable galleries or direct sales from tribal artists.
Support organizations dedicated to cultural heritage.

Respectful Interaction Guidelines

Be respectful of history, traditions, and contemporary communities.

Mindful Conduct

If visiting tribal lands, follow any specific rules or customs.
Be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas.
Approach social challenges with empathy and awareness.
Always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals.

Supporting Local Economy

Community-Based Tourism

Support locally owned tours and accommodations that reinvest profits into the community.

Find Eco-Accommodations

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

Look for fair trade certified products and prioritize buying from artisans with ethical sourcing. For reusable products, check Package Free Shop.

Support Conservation

Travel Responsibly

Your choices as a traveler contribute to preserving the environment and supporting local communities in the Pacific Northwest.

Ethical Economic Choices

Your travel choices make an economic impact on the places you visit.

Supporting Local Businesses

Prioritize dining at independent restaurants, cafes, and food trucks rather than large chain establishments.

Local Support

Shop at local boutiques, independent bookstores, and artisan shops.
Book tours with local guides who have deep knowledge.
This keeps money within the regional economy.
Find sustainable outdoor gear at Patagonia.

Avoiding Harmful Practices

Be aware of and avoid any activities that might exploit local people, wildlife, or the environment.

Ethical Conduct

Do not participate in activities that promote animal cruelty or exploitation.
Avoid activities that encourage littering, vandalism, or damage.
Avoid giving directly to individuals on the street.
Consider donating to reputable local charities instead.

Appropriate Charitable Giving

If you wish to give, research reputable local charities instead of giving directly to individuals on the street.

Research Charities

Find reputable local charities addressing homelessness or poverty.

Hotel Partnerships

Many hotels or tour operators may have partnerships with local charities.

Local Recommendations

Ask staff for recommendations on where to contribute.

Conscious Spending

Support the local economy and avoid harmful practices by making informed and ethical spending choices.

Environmental Care