Sustainable & Responsible Travel: Catskills

Environmental Considerations

The Catskill Park is a protected region. Visitor actions directly influence its ecological health.

Cultural Sensitivity

Engage respectfully with local communities and support cultural preservation efforts.

Economic Impact

Your spending choices directly affect the local economy. Support local businesses to benefit communities.

Environmental Awareness

Conservation Initiatives

The Catskill Park includes vast "forever wild" Forest Preserve lands. Organizations actively protect these resources.

Support & Learn

The Catskill Center protects forests and wildlife.
Consider donating to local conservation efforts.
Ecobnb lists eco-friendly accommodations.
G Adventures offers ethical tours.

Waste & Water Management

Careful waste disposal and water conservation are important in the region.

Sustainable Practices

Utilize recycling bins for plastic, glass, and aluminum.
Carry a Reusable water bottle to reduce plastic use.
Bring a Reusable shopping bag for purchases.
Be mindful of water usage, especially during dry periods.

Carbon Offset Options

Address the carbon footprint of your travel by supporting offset programs.

Mitigate Impact

Many airlines have direct carbon offset options.
Terrapass is a carbon offset provider.
Support organizations investing in renewable energy projects.
Contribute to reforestation initiatives.

Eco-Friendly Accommodation & Tours

Choose businesses that actively practice sustainability.

Conscious Choices

Seek accommodations with energy-efficient systems.
Look for places with waste reduction programs.
Inquire about eco-friendly cleaning products use.
Some tour operators specialize in low-impact activities.

Cultural Sensitivity & Economic Impact

Cultural Respect

Support local museums and historic sites. Engage with locals with friendliness and respect.

Support The Rainforest Site

Local Economy

Patronize independent restaurants, shops, and local guides. Look for ethical products from Patagonia and other sustainable brands.

Shop for a Cause

Leave No Trace:

Adhere to Leave No Trace principles on all outdoor excursions. This means packing out all trash, staying on marked trails, respecting wildlife, and minimizing your environmental footprint.

Responsible Interaction

Thoughtful interaction with the Catskills' environment and communities makes for a meaningful visit.

Respectful Community Engagement

Your presence here offers opportunities to connect positively with local life.

Considerate Actions

Maintain a friendly demeanor and offer greetings.
Be mindful of noise levels in residential and natural areas.
Show respect for local ways of life.
A simple "thank you" always goes a long way.

Ethical Photography & Privacy

Capture memories responsibly, respecting privacy and property.

Lens Etiquette

Always seek permission before photographing individuals.
Observe "no photography" signs in museums or private venues.
Do not enter private property for photography purposes.
Respect designated "No Trespassing" areas.

Avoiding Exploitation & Ethical Shopping

Make choices that align with ethical standards and fairness.

Conscious Consumerism

Avoid attractions that exploit animals.
Look for local artisan crafts and ethically produced goods.
Inquire about how products are sourced and made.
Support businesses with fair labor practices.

Appropriate Charitable Giving

Direct your generosity to organizations that genuinely contribute to the region.

Direct Support

Support local non-profit organizations.
Contribute to environmental conservation groups (e.g., Catskill Mountainkeeper).
Donate to community development initiatives.
Ensure your contribution directly benefits the area.

Benefits of Supporting Local Businesses

Choosing local establishments directly reinvests in the Catskills' economy.

Dine Locally

Choose independent restaurants and cafes over chain establishments.

Shop Locally

Purchase souvenirs, gifts, and groceries from local boutiques and markets.

Utilize Local Guides

Book guided hikes or fishing trips with local companies for their knowledge and community reinvestment.

Support Sustainable Practices:

Patronizing businesses committed to sustainability strengthens the region's long-term environmental and economic well-being. Look for their green initiatives.

Ethical Travel Practices

Traveling with integrity contributes positively to the Catskills' natural and cultural fabric.

Responsible Wildlife Interactions

Observe wildlife from a distance and avoid disturbing natural habitats.

Do not feed wild animals; it disrupts their natural behaviors.
Use zoom for photography instead of approaching animals closely.
Stay on designated trails to minimize impact on ecosystems.
Pack out all trash and waste.

Sustainable Activity Choices

Select activities that align with conservation principles and local well-being.

Conscious Recreation

Opt for human-powered recreation (hiking, biking, paddling).
Practice catch-and-release fishing where appropriate.
Use established campsites and fire rings.
Avoid polluting water sources.

The Catskills' resources are finite; mindful use preserves them for all.

Mindful Consumption

Conserve water at your accommodation.
Turn off lights and electronics when leaving your room.
Be extremely careful with campfires and discard cigarettes safely.
Do not pick wildflowers or disturb plants.

Supporting Ethical Businesses

Prioritize businesses that prioritize the environment and fair labor.

Conscious Patronage

Look for certifications or stated environmental policies.
Avoid establishments with questionable ethical practices.
Support businesses that hire and pay locals fairly.
Purchase locally made crafts and produce.

Positive Community Impact

Your travel choices ripple through the community, shaping its future.

Engage with Locals

Have friendly conversations, learn about their lives and traditions.

Support Local Events

Attend farmers markets, craft fairs, or community festivals.

Spread Positive Word

Share your positive experiences and recommend local businesses to others.

Wildfire Prevention:

Always check for fire bans, especially during dry seasons. Extinguish campfires completely and never discard cigarettes or hot ash on the ground.

Your Legacy in the Catskills:

Choose wisely to protect its future.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel