Go. See. Do. Buy. Eat. Drink. Sleep. Check out. Return. Broadly speaking, that might have once encapsulated many people’s notion of vacation travel. But travel has evolved. Over time, the quest to visit our world’s most special places has inspired an important question: How can we help ensure these places remain special for future generations?

And thus, the concept of ecotourism emerged as a type of travel for people who wanted not only to visit exotic environments but to also learn about them while causing no harm or damage. This form of educational travel became popular, helping mold the more encompassing concept of sustainable tourism.

According to the Global Sustainable Tourism Council, sustainable tourism refers to sustainable practices in and by the tourism industry. It is an aspiration to acknowledge all impacts of tourism, aiming to maximize the positive and minimize the negative. The UN World Tourism Organization defines it as tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment and host communities.

According to Booking.com’s 2022 Sustainable Travel Report, 71% of global travelers expressed a desire to travel more sustainably within the next year – an increase of 10% over 2021.

However you think about it, sustainable tourism has taken off – and is gaining momentum. From awe-inspiring destinations to new technology, the future looks brighter and cleaner for responsible travelers everywhere.

Campi ya Kanzi, Kenya

At this picturesque ecolodge, only renewable energies are used. This includes photovoltaic panels for electricity, solar boilers for hot water, cooking with stoves using charcoal from coffee husks and more. Safaris here use electric game-drive vehicles, which are quieter and less disturbing for a better animal-watching experience.

Xala, Mexico

On the Pacific Coast of Mexico, this new development aims to be the benchmark for tomorrow’s sustainable, eco-friendly travel. With phase one set to open in 2023, the project includes luxury residences, boutique hotels, a hostel and more. Xala aims to restore and protect the local environment while spearheading programs to protect the region’s endangered species, such as reptiles, ocelots and turtles. The goal is to create a community oriented destination focused on agriculture, farming and sustainability.

Blue Osa Yoga Retreat and Spa, Costa Rica

A favorite among ecotourists, Costa Rica committed to becoming the world’s first carbon-neutral country by 2021 (though COVID-19 has caused delay). Its efforts have led to countless gems, like Blue Osa. Running primarily on solar power, the resort provides space to connect with the land, yourself and others. Those accustomed to luxury likely would enjoy the exquisitely designed bungalows, a chlorine-free lap pool, farm-to-table cuisine and a holistic spa.

Palau, Micronesia

“Children of Palau, I take this pledge, as your guest, to preserve and protect your beautiful and unique island home.” When you consider this pledge must be signed by all visitors, it’s quite clear environmental stewardship is of utmost importance across this slice of paradise. And it’s no surprise a no-fishing zone is in place for hundreds of miles (including a designated shark sanctuary), protecting the rich biodiversity of the archipelago’s surrounding waters. Once you arrive, accommodations like Palau Pacific Resort or COVE Resort Palau, among others, will be perfect for relaxing after a long journey.

Mdumbi Backpackers, South Africa

This hostel belies its name. It’s not just for college students, but anyone whose sense of adventure centers around marine and outdoor activities. Sure, there are eco-friendly practices, like solar energy and sustainable waste systems, but the hiking, whale watching and epic surfing along the Wild Coast will tame your inner adventurer.

Coiba Island National Park, Panama

Calling outdoor enthusiasts and avid divers. How about an excursion so green it requires permission from Panama’s National Environment Authority? Off the beaten path but well worth the trek, Coiba Island National Park remains largely unspoiled and is even referred to as “the new Galapagos” among those in the know. About 75% of the island’s 1,053 square miles is virgin tropical forest and about 80% of the park is oceanic, teeming with whales, bottle-nosed dolphins, sea turtles and rare tropical fish. Are you grabbing your gear yet?

Six Senses Fiji, Malolo Island

Entirely solar powered, this stunning resort recycles rainwater, runs on a low-waste model and features artwork and furnishings created by local villagers. Over 100 hens and roosters produce fresh eggs while a protected beehive area produces delicious honey. Six Senses Fiji is also involved in the conservation of the critically endangered Fijian crested iguanas, as well as a number of cottage industries that support the local economy.

Hardangerfjord, Norway

Bundle up for the Scandinavian nation receiving honors from National Geographic’s Center for Sustainable Destinations for its conservation endeavors and rural land preservation. Then head to the third-largest fjord in the world for kayaking and guided boat tours past colorful towns, glaciers, waterfalls and snow-capped mountains. At Hardangervidda Nature Center, you can become an active and creative part of a high-tech exhibition focusing on Norway’s nature, climate and environment.

An app for that? You bet.

Lest you feel out of your element, even first-time travelers can leave a smaller footprint with the help of some tech.

Green Globe

This green travel app finds sustainable hotels, resorts, cruise ships, tours and more while providing photos, videos and links to help you book directly.

Green Travel Choice

Track your CO2 emissions whether you’re driving a car, taking a bus, flying on a plane or riding a motor bike. This app keeps a log of your trips, travel distance and emissions over time to help you choose transportation more wisely.

Localvore

For those craving local flavors, this app leads the way to farmers markets and restaurants that use local produce. While free to use, a paid membership gives you access to special discounts and giveaways.

FairTrip

Because there’s nothing like investing in people, this app finds local lodging, shops, restaurants and experiences rated by their positive social impact, status as a green business and ability to pay fair wages to employees.

Glooby

This app cross-references flights and hotels across multiple booking platforms with their potential environmental impact so you can go green and save money at the same time.