Sustainable & Responsible Travel: Anchorage

Protected Areas

Anchorage borders Chugach State Park. Respect these areas, stay on marked trails, and leave no trace.

Waste & Recycling

Dispose of trash properly. Pack out everything you pack in. Recycling facilities are available in public bins and accommodations.

Water Conservation

Practice mindful water consumption. Avoid unnecessary water waste during your stay, whether in your accommodation or during outdoor activities.

Eco-Conscious Choices

Make choices that positively impact the local environment and communities.

Carbon Offset Options

Consider purchasing carbon offsets for flights and other transportation. Invest in projects reducing greenhouse gas emissions through reputable providers like Terrapass.

Offset Your Journey

Mitigate your environmental impact.
Many airlines and third-party organizations offer programs.
Invest in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Research reputable carbon offset providers.

Eco-Friendly Travel

Choose accommodations and tour operators demonstrating a clear commitment to sustainable practices and responsible wildlife viewing. Explore options like Ecobnb and G Adventures.

Sustainable Partnerships

Inquire about environmental certifications.
Look for waste reduction programs.
Prioritize responsible wildlife viewing ethics.
Seek energy conservation efforts.

Ethical Shopping

Support local artisans and ethical production methods when purchasing souvenirs or gifts.

Authentic Souvenirs

Seek out 'Made in Alaska' labels.
Look for 'Alaska Native Made' products.
Ensure producers receive fair compensation.
Inquire about product origin.

Support Local Economy

Your consumer choices directly circulate money within the Alaskan economy and support local entrepreneurs and families.

Community Benefit

Choose local restaurants.
Opt for independent shops.
Select locally-owned tour operators.
Prefer local over large national chains.

Sustainable Gear & Products

Patagonia

A leading retailer for sustainable outdoor gear, aligning with responsible travel principles.

Explore Outdoor Gear

Package Free Shop

Offers reusable products that minimize waste, supporting a zero-waste lifestyle during your travels.

Discover Zero-Waste Products

Conscious Exploration

Be a responsible visitor.

Cultural Responsibility

Engage with Alaska's diverse cultures with respect and awareness.

Cultural Preservation

Support Alaskan Native arts and cultural centers directly. Your tourism dollars contribute to the sustainability of these cultures.

Support Local Heritage

Seek out certified 'Alaska Native Made' products.
Visit local cultural centers.

Respectful Interactions

Be respectful of local customs and traditions, notably when visiting Alaskan Native villages or cultural sites.

Engage Mindfully

Observe and listen attentively.
Politely ask if unsure about a custom.
Approach interactions with an open mind.

Photography Ethics

Respect privacy and cultural protocols. Some cultural performances or ceremonies may have specific photography restrictions, which you must observe.

Visual Considerations

Observe posted photography restrictions.
Photography without permission can be intrusive.
Consider asking permission before photographing individuals.

Religious Site Etiquette

If you visit any places of worship, dress modestly, behave quietly, and follow any posted rules. Show reverence for sacred spaces.

Sacred Spaces

Dress modestly when entering places of worship.
Maintain quiet and respectful behavior.
Follow any posted guidelines or rules.

Responsible Practices

Wildlife Welfare

Avoid tours promising unnatural animal interactions or feeding wild animals, causing distress.

Ecosystem Care

Choose operators who avoid practices that damage fragile ecosystems.

Ethical Operators

Support tour providers with strong ethical guidelines for wildlife and environment.

Ethical Engagement

Your engagement with Alaskan cultures and nature with mindful choices fosters positive and respectful interactions, ensuring a truly rewarding visit.

Community Contribution

Your choices contribute directly to the well-being of Alaska's local communities.

Community Tourism

1

Support Locals

Look for businesses genuinely invested in and run by the communities you visit.

2

Distribute Benefits

This approach helps distribute the economic benefits of tourism more broadly.

3

Local Engagement

Fosters stronger ties between visitors and local entrepreneurs.

Charitable Giving

If you wish to make a charitable donation, research reputable local non-profit organizations.
Focus on charities dedicated to environmental conservation, like the The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood).
Support wildlife protection efforts.
Aid community development programs that directly benefit Alaskan communities.
Avoid giving money directly to individuals on the street, as this may not provide sustainable assistance.
Seek transparent and impactful giving opportunities.

Ethical Practices

Be vigilant and avoid tours or activities that exploit wildlife or disrespect cultural sites.
Avoid unnatural animal interactions or close-up selfies causing distress.
Choose operators who do not damage fragile ecosystems.
Ensure respect for cultural sites and traditions.
Support businesses with strong ethical guidelines for wildlife and environment.
Seek experiences that promote conservation and authentic cultural exchange.

Support & Impact

Local Growth

Choosing local businesses keeps money circulating within the Alaskan economy.

Entrepreneur Support

Your patronage backs local entrepreneurs and their families directly.

Support Wisely

Your financial contributions shape the future of Alaska's communities and ecosystems. Support local, ethical, and sustainable initiatives for a positive legacy.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel