MileHacker Logo
Sustainable Travel in Memphis

Sustainable Travel in Memphis

Memphis Tennessee, USA Travel Guide

Shelby Farms Park Conservancy

This organization works to conserve and enhance Shelby Farms Park, managing its diverse ecosystems and recreational facilities.

Overton Park Conservancy

Dedicated to preserving and maintaining Overton Park, including its old-growth forest, zoo, and other amenities.

Mississippi River Trust

Focuses on conservation efforts along the Mississippi River, working to protect its ecological health and natural habitats.

Environmental Considerations

Protecting Memphis's natural resources and reducing environmental impact are elements of conscientious travel.

Waste Management and Recycling Practices

Recycling is available in most public spaces, hotels, and neighborhoods (often through blue bins). Look for clearly marked recycling bins for plastics, paper, and glass.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

  • Reduce: Choose products with minimal packaging.
  • Reuse: Carry a reusable water bottle and shopping bag for purchases.
  • Recycle: Properly sort and dispose of your recyclable waste.
  • Find reusable products at Package Free Shop.

Carbon Offset Options for Transportation

Utilizing public transportation (MATA buses and trolleys), walking, or cycling whenever possible lessens your carbon footprint while in Memphis.

Offsetting Your Travel

  • Offsetting Flights: Consider purchasing carbon offsets for flights and alternative transportationation.
  • Many airlines offer this option during booking.
  • Terrapass: Purchase carbon offsets for various travel activities.
  • Public Transport: Use MATA buses and trolleys to lower emissions.

Eco-Friendly Accommodation

Look for hotels with green certifications or stated environmental policies. These accommodations often implement energy-saving measures, water conservation, and waste reduction programs.

Sustainable Stays

  • Seek hotels with environmental policies and green certifications.
  • Many eco-conscious accommodations implement energy-saving measures.
  • Support accommodations that prioritize water conservation and waste reduction.
  • Book eco-friendly accommodations globally with Ecobnb.

Sustainable Tour Operators

When booking tours, ask operators about their sustainability practices, like waste disposal, group sizes, and local community engagement.

Ethical Tour Choices

  • Inquire about group sizes to minimize environmental disruption.
  • Ask how tour operators support local communities through their activities.
  • Understand their waste disposal policies to ensure responsible tourism.
  • G Adventures: Ethical tour operator offering responsible travel options.

Local Conservation Organizations

Shelby Farms Park Conservancy

Manages among the biggest urban parks in the U.S., focusing on ecosystems and recreation.

Learn More

Overton Park Conservancy

Dedicated to preserving Overton Park, including its old-growth timberland and amenities.

Learn More

Water Conservation

Memphis faces no major shortage of water due to the Mississippi River and abundant aquifers. Still, global water conservation is always a good practice. Consume water efficiently in your accommodation.

Cultural Sensitivity

A mindful approach to local culture deepens your travel experience.

Cultural Preservation Efforts

These institutions work to preserve and educate about African American history, music, and the Freedoms Movement.

Institutions

  • National Civil Rights Museum: Critical for Liberties Movement context.
  • Stax Museum, Blues Hall of Fame: Dedicated to music heritage.
  • Memphis Heritage: Works to preserve historic buildings and neighborhoods.
  • Support them through your visits.

Respectful Interaction Guidelines

Engage with locals politely and openly. Acknowledge the city's complex history.

Interaction Tips

  • Polite Engagement: Friendly and open interactions.
  • Historical Sites: Be respectful, especially at the National Civil Rights Museum.
  • Learn Before You Go: Research the area's past and culture.
  • Personal Space: Americans value personal space. Keep a comfortable distance.

Photography Ethics and Privacy Concerns

Be mindful of local customs regarding photography.

Ask Permission

Always ask before photographing people, especially children. Some prefer not to be photographed.

Sensitive Areas

Be respectful in religious sites or memorials. Avoid intrusive or disrespectful photos.

Public vs. Private

Understand where photography is permitted (public spaces) versus where permission may be needed (private property).

Religious Site Etiquette

Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting churches or religious sites. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor inside.

Economic Impact

Your travel choices have a direct economic impact on the local community.

Community-Based Tourism Initiatives

Support Local Businesses

Prioritize supporting local, independent shops, restaurants, and service providers over large chains.

Local Events & Festivals

Participate in local events and festivals; these often support local artists, musicians, and vendors.

Hire Local Guides

Hire local guides who present true insights and directly benefit from your patronage.

Fair Trade and Ethical Shopping Options

  • Seek out locally made products and crafts from local artist markets and galleries.
  • Inquire about the origin and production methods of goods to support ethical sourcing.
  • Support businesses that practice fair labor and sustainable sourcing.
  • For sustainable outdoor gear, consider Patagonia.
  • Support conservation through The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood).
  • Explore independent boutiques, bookstores, and specialty shops.
  • Don't support activities that exploit people or animals, including illicit trade.
  • Research tour operators and attractions to be sure they operate ethically.
  • Don't engage in harmful practices that could negatively influence local communities or environments.
  • Be mindful of local regulations and cultural norms to avoid unintended harm.
  • Promote positive interactions that uphold the dignity of individuals and communities.

Appropriate Charitable Giving

Research Charities

If you wish to donate, research reputable local charities or non-profit organizations working in areas like education or social services.

Local Impact

Donating to established organizations often has a greater, more sustainable impact than giving to individuals on the street.

Historical Preservation

Consider supporting organizations dedicated to historical preservation, like Memphis Heritage.

Support Local Initiatives

Your patronage of local businesses and engagement with community-based tourism directly supports the economic well-being of Memphis residents.
Sustainable Travel in Memphis. Eco-Friendly, Responsible Tourism, Conservation