Friday, February 07, 2025

Traveling Lightly: How to Explore the DMV with an Eco-Friendly Mindset

For the past few years, I have become more conscious of the environmental cost of travel. Initially, I focused on my travel to other locations rather than considering the sustainable options available in my own area, Arlington County in Northern Virginia. I now focus more on local travel and key destinations that I can reach by train and then try to combine train and bicycle as my primary modes of transportation.  Yesterday, during a webinar with leaders of our county's Climate Policy Office, I was happily surprised to learn, among other things, that there were local efforts to align business-related, income-generating activities like tourism with a more environmentally conscious approach to tourism.  In the future, when I plan trips to destinations further away than my immediate neighborhood, I will seek out information similar to what Arlington County is providing 

Here are a few resources:

When you live here, there are lots of opportunities to support eco-friendly economic development and engage in volunteer work and advocacy activities. I help mostly with cleanup activities around streams and parks and with the Energy Masters program which supports energy efficiency improvements for low income housing and their residents. When you visit, make sure to look up potential activities such as nature walks or even the Green Community Tour if you happen to be here in early June. My little permaculture-inspired backyard was part of the tour one year. 

Of course, if you come to Arlington, you should explore the broader area, which could mean the Washington Metropolitan Area (DMV) and beyond.

Exploring Eco-Tourism and Sustainable Travel in the DMV

The Washington, D.C. metropolitan area (DMV), encompassing D.C., Maryland, and Northern Virginia, is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. As travelers become more conscious of their environmental impact, eco-tourism and sustainable travel have gained momentum in the region. From green-certified hotels to nature-focused experiences, the DMV offers numerous opportunities for responsible exploration.

Green Spaces and Nature Reserves

For nature lovers, the region is home to an array of parks and preserves committed to conservation. Great Falls Park in Virginia offers breathtaking views of the Potomac River while emphasizing environmental preservation.  If you’re up for a nice bike ride, you can reach some great views by following the trail in the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park, stretching from Georgetown into Maryland. On the other side of Washington, D.C., Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens provides a serene escape with water lilies and lotus blossoms, all within an urban setting.

Credit: Barbara Fillip, date unknown, probably 2010s. 
Taken at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens.

Sustainable Accommodations

Eco-conscious travelers can find sustainable lodging options in the DMV. Many hotels in D.C. and Arlington participate in green certification programs like LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and EarthCheck.

Eco-Friendly Activities

For those interested in sustainable urban exploration, Capital Bikeshare offers a green way to navigate the city. Farmers’ markets, such as the Arlington Farmers Markets and Eastern Market in D.C., promote local food systems and reduce carbon footprints. You might even catch a tour of the Area 2 Farms, where my salad, microgreens and herbs are grown, vertically.  Additionally, guided eco-tours of the Anacostia River highlight conservation efforts and the importance of protecting local waterways.

Supporting Local and Sustainable Businesses

Dining sustainably is easy in the DMV, with many restaurants sourcing ingredients from local farms. Busboys and Poets, a community-driven eatery, prioritizes sustainability with plant-based menu options and fair-trade coffee. True Food Kitchen in Arlington offers health-conscious, environmentally friendly dishes that align with sustainable agriculture principles.

How to Travel Responsibly

To reduce environmental impact while exploring, opt for public transit, bike rentals, or walking tours. Support businesses that prioritize sustainability, and when visiting natural areas, adhere to Leave No Trace principles by minimizing waste and respecting wildlife.

By choosing eco-friendly travel options, residents and visitors alike can enjoy the beauty of the DMV while preserving it for future generations. What are your favorite sustainable spots in the region? Share them in the comments!

More Resources @ 
Virginia Green Travel

The next Sustainability in Tourism Conference is in Williamsburg, March 20-21, 2025, and will feature discussions on responsible travel, eco-friendly business practices, and sustainable hospitality. It’s an excellent opportunity for networking and learning about innovative approaches to sustainability in the tourism industry. I can reach the conference location with a train to Richmond and a bike ride on the Virginia Capital Trail. That would be a great way to get there. I've got some planning to do!