Travel opens our eyes to new cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. But it also leaves a footprint. From carbon-heavy flights to resource-intensive hotels, tourism can harm the very places we love to visit. For American travelers in 2025, the good news is that eco-friendly travel is no longer a niche trend—it’s mainstream.
More hotels, airlines, and tour operators are adopting sustainable practices, and travelers now have the power to make greener choices without sacrificing comfort. Here’s how you can identify and book truly sustainable hotels and tours for your next trip.
Why Eco-Friendly Travel Matters
Tourism accounts for about 8% of global carbon emissions, much of it from transportation and accommodations. Beyond carbon, poorly managed tourism can strain local water supplies, create waste management issues, and damage fragile ecosystems.
By choosing sustainable travel options, U.S. tourists can:
- Reduce environmental impact. Lower water, energy, and carbon use.
- Support local communities. Eco-conscious operators often hire locally and reinvest in the community.
- Protect cultural heritage. Sustainable tourism values preservation over exploitation.
- Enhance your experience. Immersive, responsible tours feel more authentic and rewarding.
What Makes a Hotel Sustainable?
Not all hotels that claim to be “green” truly are. Look for signs of genuine sustainability rather than greenwashing.
1. Certifications and Standards
- LEED Certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design): Indicates energy-efficient construction.
- Green Key, Green Globe, or EarthCheck: International standards for sustainable hotels.
- Energy Star: Common in the U.S. for eco-friendly operations.
2. Energy and Water Efficiency
Hotels that use solar panels, motion-sensor lighting, and water-saving fixtures like low-flow showers and toilets reduce resource waste.
3. Waste Management
Recycling programs, composting, refillable bathroom products, and elimination of single-use plastics are all signs of a hotel that cares.
4. Local Sourcing
Eco-friendly hotels source food from local farms, hire local staff, and incorporate native culture into their design and services.
5. Transparency
Sustainable hotels often publish annual sustainability reports, sharing measurable goals and results.
Examples of Eco-Friendly Hotels (U.S. and Beyond)
- Proximity Hotel (North Carolina): The first hotel in the U.S. to receive LEED Platinum status. Uses 100 solar panels and innovative water recycling.
- The Ranch at Laguna Beach (California): Focuses on reducing food waste and supporting local farmers.
- 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge (New York): Built with reclaimed materials, it runs on wind power and uses filtered tap water to cut plastic bottle waste.
- Soneva Resorts (Maldives & Thailand): Globally recognized for banning plastic bottles and prioritizing marine conservation.
Choosing Sustainable Tours
Beyond hotels, tours can either harm or help destinations. Here’s what to look for when booking eco-friendly experiences:
1. Small Group Sizes
Smaller groups reduce overcrowding and environmental strain.
2. Local Guides and Businesses
Tour operators that employ locals and partner with community businesses create direct economic benefits.
3. Respect for Nature
Wildlife tours should avoid disturbing animals. Hiking tours should follow “leave no trace” principles.
4. Carbon Offsetting and Low-Impact Transport
Look for tours that use biking, walking, or electric vehicles whenever possible, or those that offset emissions.
5. Ethical Practices
Avoid tours that involve captive animals (elephant rides, dolphin shows) and instead choose sanctuaries that prioritize animal welfare.
How U.S. Travelers Can Be More Sustainable
Even beyond choosing eco-hotels and tours, individual actions make a big difference:
- Pack Reusable Items: Bring a refillable water bottle, tote bag, and travel utensils.
- Limit Flights: Consider trains or buses for short distances, especially in Europe.
- Offset Carbon Emissions: Many airlines now offer carbon offset programs.
- Respect Local Cultures: Dress appropriately, support local artisans, and learn basic cultural etiquette.
- Stay Longer in One Place: Slow travel reduces your overall carbon footprint.
Cost: Is Sustainable Travel More Expensive?
Many assume eco-friendly travel means luxury prices, but that’s not always true. While boutique eco-resorts may charge more, budget travelers can also find affordable hostels and guesthouses committed to sustainability.
In fact, in the long run, green travel can save money:
- Refillable bottles cut bottled water costs.
- Staying longer in one destination reduces transportation costs.
- Supporting local businesses is often cheaper than international chains.
Destinations Leading the Way in 2025
Some destinations are setting global examples for sustainability, making them ideal for eco-conscious U.S. travelers:
- Costa Rica: A pioneer in eco-tourism with abundant wildlife lodges and national parks.
- Iceland: Runs almost entirely on renewable energy, with strict conservation policies.
- Bhutan: Famous for its “high value, low impact” tourism model that limits mass tourism.
- Slovenia: Award-winning for its green cities like Ljubljana and its eco-friendly mountain lodges.
- U.S. National Parks: Yellowstone, Yosemite, and Glacier National Park encourage sustainable camping and hiking practices.
How to Spot Greenwashing
Unfortunately, many companies exaggerate their eco-credentials. Watch out for vague claims like “eco-friendly” or “green” without specific practices or certifications. True sustainability is transparent, measurable, and verifiable.
Ask questions like:
- How do you manage waste and water?
- Do you use renewable energy?
- Do you employ and support local communities?
- Can you show proof of certifications?
Final Thoughts
Eco-friendly travel isn’t just about feeling good—it’s about ensuring future generations can enjoy the same pristine beaches, vibrant wildlife, and cultural treasures we do today.
For U.S. travelers in 2025, choosing sustainable hotels and tours is easier than ever. From certified green hotels in major American cities to eco-lodges in Costa Rica or Iceland, the options are growing.
By making conscious choices—where you stay, who you book tours with, and how you behave—you become more than a tourist. You become a responsible traveler helping protect the planet.