Sustainable Travel – How to Make Your Next Perth Getaway a Little Greener 27 Feb
We might be biased but Perth is our favourite city in Australia! Picturesque coastline, vibrant city life, and unrivalled natural landscapes – it is an ideal destination for any traveller seeking both adventure and relaxation. But as tourism grows, so does its environmental impact. The good news is there’s plenty of ways to make your next Perth getaway more sustainable without sacrificing comfort or fun! How? Read on to find out.
Choose Short Stay Apartments over Hotels
Unlike hotels, which operate 24/7 with constant heating, cooling, and lighting in common areas, short-stay apartments typically use energy only when occupied. This reduces overall energy consumption, making them a more eco-friendly choice! That’s not all.
Hotels also generate significant waste from single-use toiletries, daily housekeeping, and disposable breakfast items. In a short-stay apartment, you can bring your own toiletries, reuse towels, and cook meals with minimal waste, further reducing your environmental impact. Having access to a fully equipped kitchen allows you to buy fresh, locally sourced ingredients instead of relying on takeaway meals with excessive packaging - This helps to support local farmers and reduce food waste.
Travel Responsibly
One of the easiest ways to reduce your environmental impact while on a holiday is by choosing sustainable transportation. Instead of renting a car, explore Perth’s excellent public transport system, which includes buses, trains, and ferries. The Transperth system is efficient, affordable, and reduces the need for car rentals, lowering overall emissions.
For shorter trips, consider hiring a bike or using e-scooters available throughout the city. Perth’s well-maintained cycling paths make it easy to explore the city’s beautiful surroundings while keeping your carbon footprint low. Walking is another great option, especially in areas like Kings Park and Elizabeth Quay, where you can take in the scenery at a slower pace.
Support Local and Sustainable Businesses
Dining and shopping at local businesses not only supports the community but also reduces the environmental impact associated with imported goods. Choose restaurants and cafes that use fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and look for markets where you can buy handmade souvenirs instead of mass-produced items. At Executive Escapes, we’re more than happy to recommend some of our favourite local cafes and restaurants – just ask us.
You can also head to one of the many local markets like the Fremantle Market, where you can find eco-conscious products, organic produce, and handcrafted gifts!
Reduce Plastic Waste
Australia has been making significant strides in reducing plastic waste, and you can contribute to this effort during your Perth trip. Carry a reusable water bottle, as Perth has plenty of refill stations. Bring a reusable shopping bag, coffee cup, and cutlery to avoid single-use plastics.
Many cafes in Perth offer discounts if you bring your own cup, so you’ll not only be saving the planet but also a few dollars! Also, consider dining at restaurants that follow a zero-waste philosophy or support initiatives like composting and food redistribution.
Explore Nature with Minimal Impact
Perth is home to incredible natural attractions, from Rottnest Island to Swan Valley and Cottesloe Beach. When exploring these places, follow eco-friendly practices such as staying on marked trails, avoiding disturbing wildlife, and taking all your rubbish with you.
If you’re visiting Rottnest Island, rent a bicycle instead of using motorised transport, and remember not to feed the famous quokkas. When heading to Perth’s beautiful beaches, choose reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life and always put your rubbish in the many bins provided on the foreshore.
Participate in Sustainable Tours and Activities
Many Perth tour operators are now offering eco-friendly experiences that allow you to explore responsibly. Choose wildlife tours that emphasise conservation efforts, such as responsible whale-watching tours or ethical wildlife sanctuaries. Swan River kayaking tours, eco-cruises on the Swan Valley wine trail, and Aboriginal cultural experiences are all fantastic ways to enjoy Perth while supporting sustainability and learning more about the environment and history of the region.
Offset Your Carbon Footprint
Finally, if you’re flying into Perth, consider offsetting your carbon emissions by contributing to environmental programs. Many airlines offer carbon offset programs that support reforestation, renewable energy, or conservation projects. Additionally, you can minimise your carbon footprint by packing light (which helps reduce fuel consumption on flights), choosing direct flights when possible, and using electronic tickets instead of paper ones.
Sustainable travel doesn’t mean you have give up experiences you love, rather it’s about making mindful choices that reduce your impact on the environment while still enjoying everything the incredible city of Perth has to offer. So, as you plan your next getaway, take small steps to travel greener - it all adds up to a big difference!
For short stay furnished accommodation Perth’s Executive Escapes is your leading choice. Browse our range of furnished accommodation including apartments, beach houses, cottages, and luxurious family retreats suitable for large groups (and furry friends too!). Book online now or call +61 8 9286 2641 to speak with our friendly staff.