Have you ever wondered how your pilgrimage can influence the environment? In this article, we offer you valuable tips to minimize the environmental impact on the Camino de Santiago. You will discover sustainable and nature-friendly practices that will allow you to live an enriching experience without leaving a negative footprint on the environment.
Additionally, we will address the crucial role played by organizing agencies of the Camino de Santiago de Compostela in promoting responsible tourism. From the use of biodegradable materials to tips for sustainable eating, this article is your essential guide to being a conscious and committed pilgrim.
Join us on this path towards greener tourism and discover how your small actions can make a big difference. Keep reading to transform your trip into a true ecological odyssey.
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Avoid plastic, especially bags
We all know that plastic bags are everywhere, so The best way to prevent their proliferation from continuing to increase is precisely not to use them. If you need to store your clothes in a bag, always try to use fabric bags, which are much more resistant and also reusable.
Exactly the same thing happens with plastic in single-use products, such as cups, straws and so on. Avoid them, carry your canteen for water and, if possible, a set of cutlery, for example, made of bamboo.
In case you resort to plastic, of course make use of the relevant bins and containers.
Reusable water bottle or thermos
This point is more or less related to the previous one. We know very well that water is essential during any pilgrimage. Therefore, instead of buying a bottle of water in each store that you then have to throw away, it is better have one that you can reuse.
Furthermore, along the way There are different sources of drinking water available, so you will have no problems filling them. Another action you can take is to use metal containers or thermoses that help you maintain the temperature of the drink (both cold and hot).
Don’t go off the path
As we have already said, there are thousands of pilgrims who make the journey from Sarria to Santiago de Compostela, following each of the signs.
As sustainable walkers, We recommend never leaving the trails. Just imagine that some do it just to try and discover some new places. Then, many others would follow them until they formed a new route that, in addition to modifying the original idea, They would destroy the landscape and the natural environment in general.
Buy local products
Regardless of the route you choose, the Camino de Santiago passes through many rural sections so you can take advantage of a wide variety of local products: from sausages and desserts to vegetables and some fruits. Support local commerce and let yourself be advised by the locals, who always have the best intentions for pilgrims.
Always take care of the water
Although it is common to see it running through different rivers along the Camino de Santiago, it does not mean that you can waste it. Under no circumstances should you throw products into the water., such as detergents, soaps or any type of contaminating products. As you will understand, these generate serious damage to the flora and fauna of these ecosystems.
If you want to bathe in lagoons or rivers, for the simple pleasure of feeling the fresh water, do it, but take care of the environment. And remember that, to drink, you should only use potable sources.
Be careful with fire
Fires are not a game, especially in the northern areas of Portugal and Galicia, which have been so affected by these disasters. Do not make bonfires or barbecues in areas that are not designated for them.. Do not throw cigarette butts or any type of flammable object along the way.
If you smoke, keep your cigarette butts in the bag you designate for your personal waste.
Don’t miss out on anything along the way
We know that along the Camino de Santiago you will find beautiful flowers, striking stones, and any number of things that you might like to take as a souvenir. But no, they are not souvenir shops.
For these cases, it is best bet on photographs. Even if it is a simple stone or a small flower, just imagine if each of the 300.000 pilgrims who cross these paths in a year did the same. What would be the result?
Doing the Camino de Santiago without a doubt marks a before and after in anyone’s life. Always try to maintain a respectful attitude towards the environment and always remember that these routes are thousands of years old, and the fact that they remain this way will be precisely thanks to the awareness of the walkers.
