ways to travel kind
What if we started living a little kinder?
This year we are encouraging everyone to #LiveKinder and tread a little lighter – especially when it comes to our relationship with animals. With a few small changes we can all #LiveKinder - let’s be kinder in what we eat, kinder in what we do and kinder in how we treat animals and the planet. Every little action can have a huge impact, and collectively we have the power to protect animals and the planet. Whilst we all are still living with the fallout of COVID-19 we are becoming increasingly aware of the link between the way we treat animals and the planet, and the subsequent emergence of global pandemics. Over 75% of pandemics have come from animals, including wildlife and farmed animals. The message is clear - we need to change the way we live. Are you prepared to #LiveKinder?
These changes do not need to be big to make a significant impact. Even a few small steps in the right direction can, and will, make a big difference.
Click here if you would like to know more about the link between animal welfare and pandemics.
Ways to #TravelKind
Go natural
While travelling, make sure to enjoy wild animals in their natural habitat, rather than in captivity where possible, and only support genuine sanctuaries or conservation centres. If you are worried about an animal or institution – report it! Enjoy animals in the wild where they belong and support companies that offer eco-tourism trips or non-invasive photo safaris.
Look but don’t touch
Wild animals aren’t pets like your dog looking for belly scratches and treats. Holding or petting wildlife is never kind to the animal, despite your best intentions or how cute you may think they are. Close contact with wild animals could cause harm to their environment or to the animals themselves.
Be a kind tourist
Never support the use of animals to solicit money from tourists e.g. animal shows and performances on the sides of the road or at markets, or where any animal is used for ‘selfies’ - where you pay the ‘owner’ to take a photo with a wild animal.
Be a cool camper
When camping or travelling through a nature reserve or national park make sure you always take your food waste with you and don leave food in your camp, on tables, in unsecured bins or other easily accessible places where wild animals can have access to it.