Nomading, or remote work while traveling, is a trend that has been growing in recent years. The idea of having the freedom to work from anywhere in the world is appealing to many people who are looking for a change in their work-life balance. However, nomading also comes with a responsibility to consider the impact it has on the environment. In this blog, we will explore how to achieve work-life balance while also prioritizing environmental sustainability by discussing sustainable accommodations, reducing plastic use, supporting sustainable transportation, prioritizing energy efficiency, supporting local communities, and other ways to reduce our environmental impact.
Sustainable Accommodations
One of the biggest environmental impacts of nomading is the carbon footprint associated with transportation and accommodations. To reduce our impact, we can choose accommodations that prioritize sustainability, such as eco-friendly hotels or hostels, or even camping and glamping options.
Eco-friendly hotels and hostels
Eco-friendly hotels and hostels reduce their impact on the environment by implementing sustainable practices. Green hotels and hostels use renewable energy, reduce water consumption, and use eco-friendly cleaning products. Some green hotels even have their own organic gardens, where they grow their own produce for their guests. These practices reduce the carbon footprint of the hotel and provide guests with an eco-friendly experience. Examples of eco-friendly hotels include the Proximity Hotel in Greensboro, North Carolina, and the Hotel Verde in Cape Town, South Africa.
Camping and glamping options
Camping and glamping options provide a sustainable accommodation choice for nomads. Camping allows travelers to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. The key to sustainable camping is to leave no trace. This means packing out all trash and disposing of waste properly. Glamping, or glamorous camping, provides a more luxurious camping experience. Glamping accommodations are often designed to blend in with the environment and use sustainable materials. Examples of glamping accommodations include the Treehotel in Sweden and the Clayoquot Wilderness Resort in British Columbia, Canada.
Reducing Plastic Use
Plastic waste is a growing problem worldwide, and nomads are not immune to its impact. To reduce our plastic use, we can carry reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and utensils. We can also avoid single-use plastic items like straws and plastic bags.
Reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and utensils
Carrying a reusable water bottle, coffee cup, and utensils is an easy way to reduce our plastic use. Refilling a reusable water bottle instead of buying plastic bottled water reduces the amount of plastic waste generated. Using a reusable coffee cup instead of a disposable cup also reduces waste. Bringing reusable utensils, such as a fork and knife, instead of using disposable utensils reduces plastic waste and saves money.
Avoiding single-use plastic items
Single-use plastic items, such as straws and plastic bags, are a significant contributor to plastic waste. Many countries have banned single-use plastic bags, and some cities have banned plastic straws. Nomads can do their part by avoiding these items when they travel. Bringing a reusable bag when shopping and refusing plastic bags from stores can help reduce plastic waste. Using metal or bamboo straws instead of plastic straws is another way to reduce plastic waste.
Supporting Sustainable Transportation
Transportation is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, so supporting sustainable transportation options is crucial. As nomads, we can choose to walk, bike, or use public transportation when possible.
Walking and biking
Walking and biking are sustainable transportation options that also provide health benefits. Walking and biking are great ways to explore a new city and can be used for short distances. Many cities now have bike-sharing programs, which make it easy and affordable to rent a bike.
Public transportation
Using public transportation is another sustainable transportation option. Public transportation reduces the number of cars on the road, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Using public transportation also reduces the stress of driving in a new city. Many cities have extensive public transportation systems, including buses, subways, and trains. Nomads can purchase a weekly or monthly pass to save money and reduce their environmental impact.
Prioritizing Energy Efficiency
Working remotely means relying on technology, which in turn requires energy. To reduce our energy consumption, we can prioritize energy-efficient devices, such as laptops with long battery life and LED lighting.
Energy-efficient devices
Using energy-efficient devices is an easy way to reduce our energy consumption. Laptops with long battery life and efficient processors use less energy than older models. LED lighting is another energy-efficient choice. LED lights use less energy and last longer than traditional bulbs. Nomads can also use power-saving features on their devices, such as sleep mode and power management settings.
Natural lighting
Working in spaces with natural light reduces the need for artificial lighting. Natural light is also beneficial for our health, as it can improve our mood and productivity. Nomads can choose accommodations with large windows or workspaces with natural light. They can also work outside when weather permits.
Powering down devices
Powering down devices when they are not in use is a simple way to reduce energy consumption. Nomads can use power strips to easily turn off multiple devices at once. They can also unplug devices when they are not in use to reduce standby power consumption.
Supporting Local Communities
As nomads, we have the opportunity to support local communities and economies. By supporting local businesses, we can help reduce the environmental impact of transportation while also contributing to the local economy.
Staying in locally owned accommodations
Staying in locally owned accommodations is a great way to support the local economy. Local accommodations also tend to have a smaller environmental footprint than large chain hotels. Locally owned accommodations are often more willing to implement sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy and reducing water consumption.
Supporting sustainable tour operators
Supporting sustainable tour operators is another way to reduce our impact on the environment. Sustainable tour operators prioritize sustainable practices, such as reducing waste and using eco-friendly transportation. They also support local communities by providing jobs and contributing to the local economy. Nomads can research sustainable tour operators before booking tours and excursions.
Respecting local cultures and customs
Respecting local cultures and customs is important for sustainable tourism. Nomads can learn about the local culture before traveling and make an effort to understand the customs and traditions of the places they visit. They can also support local businesses and buy locally made products.
Conclusion
Achieving work-life balance as a nomad means prioritizing sustainability and reducing our impact on the environment. By choosing sustainable accommodations, reducing plastic use, supporting sustainable transportation, prioritizing energy efficiency, supporting local communities, and other ways to reduce our environmental impact, we can live and work in a way that is both fulfilling and environmentally responsible. As nomads, we have the opportunity to experience different cultures and landscapes while also taking care of the planet.