The stunning beauty of Fort Walton Beach and Destin, with their emerald waters and white sandy beaches, attracts millions of visitors each year. However, with this influx comes the responsibility of preserving these natural treasures for future generations. Practicing eco-friendly travel ensures that we minimize our environmental footprint while enjoying the wonders of the Emerald Coast. Here’s how you can contribute to sustainability when visiting Fort Walton Beach and Destin.
1. Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodations
Eco-Certified Hotels and Resorts
Look for accommodations that have earned eco-certifications such as LEED, Green Key, or the Florida Green Lodging Program. These certifications indicate that the establishment follows sustainable practices, including energy and water conservation, waste reduction, and eco-friendly guest amenities.
Example: Emerald Grande(opens in a new tab) at HarborWalk Village in Destin is known for its commitment to eco-friendly practices, including energy-efficient lighting and a robust recycling program.
Vacation Rentals with a Green Focus
Opt for vacation rentals that prioritize sustainability. Many rental properties in the area promote green practices such as using energy-efficient appliances, offering recycling options, and implementing water-saving measures.
Tip: When booking, ask property managers about their environmental policies to ensure they align with your sustainability goals.
2. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
Pack Reusable Items
Bring reusable water bottles, shopping bags, utensils, and containers to minimize single-use plastics. Destin and Fort Walton Beach have numerous refill stations and businesses that support the use of reusable items.
Local Spotlight: Funky Blues Shack(opens in a new tab) in Destin encourages patrons to bring reusable containers for take-out, aligning with their eco-conscious dining ethos.
Participate in Local Recycling Programs
Make use of local recycling facilities and adhere to their guidelines. Many beachside accommodations provide recycling bins and instructions for sorting waste properly.
Note: Walton County’s recycling program accepts items like paper, cardboard, aluminum, and certain plastics. Check local guidelines(opens in a new tab) for specifics.
3. Support Local and Sustainable Businesses
Eat Locally Sourced Food
Dine at restaurants that prioritize locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. Eating local reduces the carbon footprint associated with transporting food over long distances.
Recommendation: The Local Market(opens in a new tab) in Destin features fresh, locally sourced ingredients in their dishes, supporting regional farmers and reducing environmental impact.
Shop at Farmers’ Markets
Visiting farmers’ markets supports local agriculture and reduces packaging waste. These markets offer fresh produce, artisanal goods, and local specialties.
Visit: Destin Community Farmers Market is a great spot to find fresh, locally grown produce and handcrafted items.
4. Travel Responsibly
Opt for Eco-Friendly Transportation
Minimize your carbon footprint by using public transportation, biking, or walking whenever possible. Fort Walton Beach and Destin offer several options for sustainable transport.
Eco-Friendly Rentals: Rent a bike from Coastal Cruisers(opens in a new tab) in Destin to explore the area on two wheels. Their rentals include electric bikes for a zero-emission ride.
Carpool or Use Ride-Sharing Services
If you need to drive, consider carpooling or using ride-sharing services to reduce the number of vehicles on the road and cut down on emissions.
Local Options: Services like Uber and Lyft operate in the area, offering convenient and eco-friendly transportation alternatives.
5. Respect Wildlife and Natural Habitats
Follow Leave No Trace Principles
The Leave No Trace principles are essential for preserving natural environments. This includes disposing of waste properly, staying on designated trails, and respecting wildlife. This is especially important during beach days!
Guideline: Follow Okaloosa County’s tips on how to minimize your impact on the environment(opens in a new tab) while exploring the outdoors.
Protect Marine Life
When participating in water activities, be mindful of marine life. Avoid disturbing coral reefs, seagrass beds, and nesting areas for sea turtles.
Snorkeling Tip: Choose eco-friendly sunscreens(opens in a new tab) that do not contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone, which can damage coral reefs.
6. Engage in Eco-Tourism Activities
Participate in Beach Cleanups
Join local beach cleanups to help keep the coast pristine. These events are often organized by environmental groups and local businesses.
Get Involved: My Clean Co.(opens in a new tab) hosts regular cleanup events where volunteers can help remove trash and debris from local beaches.
Explore Nature Responsibly
Enjoy eco-friendly activities like kayaking, bird-watching, and hiking. Choose tour operators that emphasize environmental stewardship and respect for natural habitats.
Example: For those eager to explore the waters around Destin, at Crab Island Watersports we offer pontoon and jet ski rental(opens in a new tab). Prioritizing environmental sustainability and our commitment to eco-friendly practices, we advocate the use of clean, efficient watercraft, proper waste disposal, and participation in local conservation efforts. We also educate our guests about the importance of preserving marine life and encourage responsible tourism, ensuring that the breathtaking beauty of the Emerald Coast remains untouched by the negative impacts of recreational activities.
7. Conserve Water and Energy
Mind Your Water Usage
Water conservation is crucial, especially in areas prone to drought. Take shorter showers, turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, and avoid wasting water.
Tip: Many accommodations offer water-saving devices such as low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators. Make use of these features to reduce water consumption.
Reduce Energy Consumption
Conserve energy by turning off lights, air conditioning, and electronics when not in use. Many hotels in the Emerald Coast use energy-efficient systems to minimize their impact.
Practice: Use natural light during the day and unplug chargers when not in use to further reduce your energy footprint.
8. Educate and Advocate
Learn About Local Environmental Issues
Educate yourself about the environmental challenges facing Fort Walton Beach and Destin, such as coastal erosion, marine pollution, and habitat loss.
Resource: The Choctawhatchee Basin Alliance(opens in a new tab) provides valuable information and initiatives aimed at protecting the local watershed and coastal habitats.
Support Conservation Efforts
Contribute to local environmental organizations and initiatives that work towards preserving the natural beauty of the Emerald Coast.
Donate: Consider donating to Emerald Coastkeeper(opens in a new tab), an organization dedicated to safeguarding the water quality and ecosystems of the Emerald Coast.
9. Be a Responsible Visitor
Respect Local Regulations
Follow local rules and regulations designed to protect the environment. This includes adhering to beach guidelines, respecting wildlife regulations, and not disturbing protected areas.
Example: Certain beaches have restrictions during sea turtle nesting season to protect these endangered creatures. Always follow posted signs and guidelines.
Practice Responsible Consumption
Be mindful of what you buy and how you dispose of waste. Avoid purchasing items with excessive packaging and opt for eco-friendly products whenever possible.
Tip: When souvenir shopping, choose locally made, sustainable items to support the local economy and reduce the environmental impact.
10. Inspire Others
Share Your Eco-Friendly Practices
Inspire others by sharing your experiences and eco-friendly practices on social media. Highlight the importance of sustainability and how small actions can make a big difference.
Use Hashtags: Share your sustainable travel tips using hashtags like #EcoTravel and #SustainableTourism to reach a wider audience and encourage more people to adopt green practices.
Advocate for Sustainable Tourism
Encourage fellow travelers to embrace eco-friendly habits and support businesses that prioritize sustainability. Your advocacy can help drive positive change in the tourism industry.
Join Conversations: Engage in discussions about sustainable tourism practices and share your knowledge to help raise awareness about the importance of eco-friendly travel.
Embracing Eco-Friendly Travel on the Emerald Coast
By adopting sustainable practices during your visit to Fort Walton Beach and Destin, you contribute to the preservation of this breathtaking region. Eco-friendly travel not only helps protect the environment but also enhances your travel experience, allowing you to connect more deeply with the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Emerald Coast. Embrace these eco-friendly tips and enjoy a responsible and rewarding visit to this stunning destination. Together, we can ensure that the Emerald Coast remains a pristine paradise for generations to come.