Zero-waste and beyond: 7 holidays that will let you make a meaningful impact

These upcoming tours offer socially-aware adventures around the globe, from conscious immersion in ancient Irish culture to citizen-scientist forays into Peru’s rainforests
Now more than ever before, travel can be a catalyst for positive social change, an economic driver for environmental conservation, while being transformative – in nearly every sense of the word.
This year, instead of looking at travel as merely a means of discovery and exploration, consider how your trip plans could be more purposeful – whether that means challenging yourself physically, seeking out a path seldom trodden, or making a meaningful impact on the destination you visit.
Do not know where to start? Here are seven purpose-driven holidays for 2019, curated by travel experts at Bannikin Asia.
1. Leave no trace in the United States
This year, lower your carbon footprint with the World’s First Zero Waste Adventure, courtesy of Natural Habitat Adventures, global leaders in responsible adventure travel and eco-tourism.
This initiative, debuting as part of Nat Hab’s Safari America: Yellowstone Country tour on July 6, 2019, will divert nearly 100 per cent of all on-trip waste produced as a by product of Nat Hab-sponsored trip operations.
From arrival to departure, travellers will be encouraged to refuse, recycle, compost, upcycle or reuse potential waste such as plastic straws and individually wrapped items.
2. Embrace permaculture principles in Colombia