Sustainable Tourism refers to sustainable practices in and by the tourism industry. It is an aspiration to acknowledge all impacts of tourism, both positive and negative. It aims to minimize the negative impacts and maximize the positive ones.
Feel Green Before You Come to Slovenia and Žalec
1. To visit one of the greenest destinations on the planet is to travel responsibly. Slovenia is the first country to be comprehensively evaluated by the standards of Green Destinations, a non-profit promoting sustainable tourism. It has launched Slovenia Green, a national programme which includes a number of green destinations, lodgings, parks and tourism agencies. These have all been rated based on their sustainability efforts and have received their national Slovenia Green Certificates. There are green adventures waiting for you at every step in this country spanning the Alps, the Mediterranean, the Karst region and the Pannonian Lowlands. Try to find out as much as you can about your destinations and their local traditions. Get to know Slovenia even before you arrive.
2. Feel Slovenia Green Destinations even before your arrival. Be inspired by the locals’ love of nature and cultural heritage.
3. Arrive by train or bus, or choose an airline dedicated to lowering its carbon footprint.
4. Choose accommodation with the international and national Slovenia Green Certificate. An increasing number of lodgings have the national certificate as well as one of the top global sustainability certificates, such as Green Globe, Travelife and European Eco Label, to name a few.
Accommodation providers strive for sustainability; they take responsible action in the management of waste and wastewater, and in energy consumption. Most providers are closely connected with their local communities, and hire locals who will be happy to share stories and interesting details about the destination with you.
5. There are certified tourism agencies specialising in green hiking and the outdoor experience. If you want to travel in a green and sustainable way, tourism agencies with the national Slovenia Green Certificate will be happy to help you plan your hiking routes and outdoor adventures.