Traveling is an enriching opportunity, and we cannot let it pass, but even though this is an exciting experience, it can also harm the environment. From the carbon emissions generated by transportation to the waste produced by tourism, there are many ways that travel can harm the planet. One often-overlooked aspect of sustainable travel is laundry habits.
We all know it is a trend to practice and maintain sustainable ways, especially in the laundry while traveling. Hence, we have some tips on how you can do so.
According to a study by the United Nations, the tourism industry accounts for around 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions. While laundry services may seem like a small part of this, they can still contribute to the overall environmental impact of travel. The water and energy used, and the transportation of laundry to and from these facilities, can also generate carbon emissions.
Traditional laundry habits while traveling is a significant contributor to the environmental impact. It often involves large amounts of water, energy, and chemical detergents which result in a negative impact on the environment. Several travelers opt to use laundry detergents that contain harmful chemicals that can harm the environment and contribute to water pollution and harm aquatic life.
Likewise, if you need your delicate clothes for dry cleaning, it is not an environmental-friendly laundry practice. Dry cleaners use chemicals instead of water to clean clothes, the chemicals are hazardous chemicals that can cause harm to the environment and to human health. It can contaminate soil and groundwater if it is not properly disposed of, and it can also contribute to air pollution.
So, how can one practice sustainable laundry habits while on travel?
Fortunately, there are many sustainable laundry habits that travelers can adapt to reduce their impact on the environment. One of the easiest ways to do so is to bring your own laundry detergent and hand wash your clothes. This method uses far less water than traditional laundry services and allows you to control the type of detergent that is used.
You can also visit eco-friendly laundry services. Many laundry services now offer sustainable options, such as using non-toxic cleaning agents and cold water washes. By choosing these services, you can still enjoy the convenience of having your laundry done without contributing to environmental harm.
If you prefer the convenience of hotel laundry services, there are still ways to make this option more sustainable. Consider opting for a wash and fold service, which uses less water and energy than traditional laundry services. Ask the hotel if they use eco-friendly detergents and cleaning agents, and if not, request that they do so.
Meanwhile, if you need dry cleaning for your delicate clothes, it is now possible. In recent years, there has been a move towards more environmentally friendly alternatives to perc, such as wet cleaning, which uses water and non-toxic detergents, and liquid carbon dioxide cleaning, which uses pressurized carbon dioxide to clean clothes.
You just have to look for a dry cleaner that uses environmentally-friendly practices and chemicals. It is important for a dry cleaner to use an alternative to perc and properly dispose of the chemical and waste products.
If you choose to handwash your clothes while traveling, there are many eco-friendly laundry products that you can use to minimize your environmental impact. One option is to use a soap nut or soap berry, which is a natural detergent made from the dried fruit of the Sapindus Mukorossi tree. These nuts can be used for multiple washes and are biodegradable, making them a sustainable alternative to traditional laundry detergents.
You can also use a laundry wash bag. It can capture microfibers that are released during the washing process. These microfibers are a major source of ocean pollution, and by using a wash bag, you can prevent them from entering the water system.
Besides using eco-friendly products, it is also better to only wash at full load capacity. It uses lesser water and energy than washing small loads frequently. Also, instead of using a dryer, hang your clothes to dry outside or indoors on a clothes rack. This not only saves energy but also helps your clothes last longer.
Sustainable travel is becoming increasingly important, and laundry habits are a key part of this. By adopting sustainable laundry habits while traveling, you can reduce your environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future. Whether you choose to handwash your clothes, use eco-friendly laundry services, or opt for a wash and fold service, there are many ways to make your laundry habits more sustainable. Take these small steps and you can help protect the planet and make a positive impact on the world around you.