TimeOut recently reported that Melbourne was one of the top 10 most sustainable destinations in the world.
It is a fabulous piece of news to wake up to when you already know how good the city’s reputation is for being a top vegan destination, too.
There are many ways you can explore Melbourne a bit more sustainably. Here are my top tips for travelling through my hometown.
Leave the car at home and take public transport.
Melbourne has some of the most versatile transport options in the world. Trains, buses, trams. We have it all. And nothing beats leaving the driving to someone else. Plus, it is a fun way to see what is happening around town as you sit in a window seat.
Better yet, plan a vegan lunch or dinner at a part of town that is further away from your lodgings. Then, you can see a part of Melbourne you would not normally get to see.
Explore many of the city’s urban parks, gardens, and outdoor attractions.
The best thing about Melbourne is that you do not have to pay to visit the city’s natural spaces. Go by public transport or – better yet – go by foot or take your bike to get the best outdoor experience. Do not forget your helmet because it is illegal to ride without one. There is a great guide on the many gardens and open spaces on the Visit Victoria website.
Or do something a little different and explore Melbourne by e-scooter. Hire a shared e-scooter and take in the city’s sights. This is new to Melbourne, but the City of Melbourne has you covered with the basics. Read their guide to familiarise yourself.
Support smaller accommodation options.
The city and its surrounds have many eco-friendly accommodation and sustainable home options. Look for accommodation that is low on scale, rather than bigger complexes. That way, you will reduce your carbon footprint and be closer to nature and attractions at the same time. Local, grassroots experiences are often the best.
Choose to dine in instead of take-away.
You can burn through single-use packaging and cutlery and bags when you choose takeaway. Indeed, choose to dine in. Not only will you avoid creating single-use waste, but you will also get the full experience behind the food – the sights, sounds and personalities behind the culinary creations.
If you don’t have the option to dine in, make sure you do your best to recycle and compost your food packaging. Always carry a reusable cup, water bottle and set of cutlery to reduce the amount you create.
Order only what you can eat.
Food waste is enormous and the carbon emissions that come from food waste are damaging to the environment. When you eat out, try to order only as much food as you can eat and aim to finish everything on your plate. Better yet, take your own container with you just in case there are leftovers. That way, you can enjoy the food the next day and avoid creating food waste at the same time.
For more of my sustainable travel tips, visit one of my earlier blog posts.
