Earth Changers

12/03/2024

Join us in continuing our celebrations for this week by taking a look at the largest member state of the Commonwealth… 🇮🇳

As the largest member state, India not only represents a significant portion of the Commonwealth's population but also plays a pivotal role in shaping its agenda for progress and prosperity. With its diverse society and rich cultural heritage, India embodies the essence of unity in diversity, fostering understanding and mutual respect among nations. Through initiatives promoting sustainable development, innovation, and social justice, India actively contributes to advancing the collective goals of the Commonwealth, serving as an inspiration for others to follow.

See this beautiful country and culture firsthand and take part in our breathtaking walking and trekking holidays across rural villages in the Himalayas 🌄❤️

🔗 Enquire and learn more about our trips and how you will be helping to sustain these remote agricultural communities through the link in bio!

www.earth-changers.com > places > India

11/03/2024

“Nobody can discover the world for somebody else. Only when we discover it for ourselves does it become common ground and a common bond and we cease to be alone.”~ Wendell Berry, novelist, poet, essayist, environmental activist, cultural critic and farmer who wrote on agrarian culture and economy of rural communities.

Happy ! Celebrating its 75th anniversary this year!

But what is the Commonwealth and is it still relevant?

It is a voluntary association of 56 *independent* and *equal* countries, home to 2.5 billion people. It includes both advanced economies and developing countries (33 are small states, including many island nations) who come together to stand united and celebrate shared values.

Despite a perception of colonial past, the Commonwealth campaigns for small states development, youth empowerment, gender equality, climate change, environment, trade, democracy, human rights and peace.

Its message rings true more than ever with this year's theme, ‘One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth’ (for those into sustainability, not unlike the Brundtland Report, 'Our Common Future' for sustainable development).

"The Commonwealth family is strongest when we are connected, through friendship... Together and individually, we are strengthened by sharing perspectives and experiences, and by offering and borrowing the myriad ways we have each tackled the challenges of our time."~ King Charles III, Commonwealth Day video.

Several of our partners are based in CommonWealth countries - Tanzania, Malawi, Kenya and, in the pic, India! - an ex ashram for Mahatma Gandhi, a retreat for Nehru and visited by Mrs Gandhi’s family:
📸 https://www.earth-changers.com/sustainable-places/india-village-ways

Support us and you support them and all you have to do is take a fabulous trip there!

We have a world of challenges, so let's tackle them together!

09/03/2024

10+1 Highlights re. & :

1/ Adopts a New Global to Measure the of Tourism https://www.unwto.org/news/un-adopts-a-new-global-standard-to-measure-the-sustainability-of-tourism

2/ / / / : Entrance fees, visitor zones & taxes: how ’s biggest are tackling https://www.theguardian.com/travel/2024/mar/03/entrance-fees-visitor-zones-and-taxes-how-europes-biggest-cities-are-tackling-overtourism

3/ /Communities: Unruly face €3,000 fines for anti-social behaviour in https://mol.im/a/13163181

4/ Communities/Commerce: Tourists in wake up to signs from locals warning them to 'go home' : hit by anti-tourism graffiti believing tourism is causing more harm than good https://www.mirror.co.uk/travel/europe/tourists-tenerife-wake-up-signs-32278390

5/ Climate: Financial toll of hitting harder, UN says: households led by lose ~8% more income to heat stress than male-led families https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/mar/05/financial-toll-climate-crisis-women-harder-un

6/ Climate: Heard talk of 16 week a while back, it was 20 weeks when I worked seasons...> ’ era of plentiful may be over due to climate crisis: US 5-7 days shorter https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/mar/02/ski-resorts-snow-global-warming-study

7/ Climate: New mass event hits site - 5th time in 8 years vs only 2 recorded until 2016: urgent climate action is needed for the to survive https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-australia-68508423

8/ Climate: Church reemerges from 1% full reservoir as Spain faces 1000 day : Increased evaporation, shorter rainy seasons & less snow cover are set to worsen (& wildfire) crises in the western https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/mar/02/it-makes-me-so-sad-church-reemerges-from-reservoir-as-spain-faces-droughts

9/ Climate/ : countries already hitting targets for #2030 a decade early -‘systematic progress’ achieved in 2010s- but big gaps remain across the board https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2024/feb/28/eu-countries-already-hitting-some-of-their-sustainable-energy-targets-for-2030

10/ Climate/Conservation: "50% of citizens believe is -friendly" Wow. They better watch this > How ships became a catastrophe for the planet – video https://www.theguardian.com/environment/video/2024/mar/07/how-cruise-ships-became-a-catastrophe-for-the-planet-video

10+1!/ Communities/Commerce: starts planning for post- tourism: ‘We welcome our guests if they don’t come with guns’, - when borders & skies reopen https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/ukraine-war-tourism-kyiv-lviv-b2506399.html

Rural households led by women lose about 8% more income to heat stress than male-led families, data shows

08/03/2024

Here's to the fierce, resilient, and inspiring women across the globe… Happy International Women's Day! 🎊💁‍♀️🎊

Empowering women is not just a necessity, but a catalyst for societal progress, as their strength and resilience propel communities towards equality and prosperity. All of which is perfectly demonstrated in our partners Women’s Partnership Challenge based in Malawi. 10 women, 10 days. This challenge is designed for women who want to learn as they travel, inspire others and be inspired themselves; have your own incredible adventure and travel with a group of like minded people. Claim 2024 as YOUR year! 💪

But don’t just take our word for it…

“This is simply a meeting of minds, social communication from one culture to another, which is brilliantly inspiring, it is a way to raise each other up. To be empowered and inspired by the strength and courage of others”

Now if that isn’t a testimonial to get you inspired, I don’t know what is! 🤩🤩

Click on the link in bio to book now, while spaces last 💨
www.earth-changers.com > places > Malawi

07/03/2024

📚 Happy World Book Day! 📚

At , we believe in the power of books to inspire and educate travelers about sustainable tourism.

What better way than sharing this world's wonders than through a trusty guidebook! 🌟

We are celebrating the crucial role guidebooks have in the realm of travel, serving as indispensable companions for adventurers worldwide. They provide a wealth of information about destinations, offering insights into local culture, history, and attractions. Beyond mere sightseeing, guidebooks often delve into practical aspects such as accommodation options, transportation tips, and safety precautions, empowering travelers to navigate unfamiliar territories with confidence.

Comment ‘❤️📚’ below if you agree!

05/03/2024

Here at we’re kick starting our celebrations for World Sustainable Day running from the 5-8th of March 🌱

Reliable and affordable electricity saves and improves lives. Among its many benefits, electricity powers computers, schools, charges phones, keeps food cold and businesses and essential infrastructure functioning. But, energy is also the main contributor to climate change, producing more than 70% of greenhouse gases, requiring investment and development in renewable sources.

Our extraordinary partners in Indonesia are paving the way forward in energy efficiency AND emphasising mindful connections and activities for guests…

⚡️There are no televisions, dvds, telephones or mini bar fridges. There’s low voltage fans, LED or CFL lighting, with recycled cooking oil tiki lamps along pathways so as not to disorientate nightlife such as nesting turtles.

So instead you can spend your days kayaking, diving, trekking, rock climbing, playing board games, at the spa, in the library or just simply taking in the stunning scenery, the choice is all yours🧘🏻‍♀️🏄🏽‍♂️🤿🪁

Stay here and YOU will be contributing to, and benefiting from, this incredible work - click to enquire!
🔗 www.earth-changers.com > places > Indonesia

04/03/2024

: "The woman who follows the crowd will usually go no further than the crowd. The woman who walks alone is likely to find herself in places no one has ever been before."~ Albert Einstein.

It's International Women's Week!

As one of the sectors with the highest share of women employed, tourism can empower women in multiple ways, particularly through the provision of jobs and through income-generating opportunities and entrepreneurship.

Tourism can be a tool for women to unlock their potential, helping them to become fully engaged and lead in every aspect of society.

🔗 Learn more: https://www.earth-changers.com/purpose/gender-equality-female-empowerment

Are you a woman who travels alone, ending up in places no one has been before?

📸Malawi © Venetia Norrington

03/03/2024

🌍 Happy World Wildlife Day! 🌍

Did you know our planet hosts an astonishing 8.7 million species?!*

From the majestic lions of Kenya's savannas to the colorful birds of Costa Rica's rainforests, each one adds to the rich tapestry of life on Earth; let’s take a minute to marvel at the beautiful creatures we share this planet with!🌟

Dive into this lush rainforest of Costa Rica, home to 850 bird species and 200 mammal species! Meanwhile, Tanzania's Coral Park boasts rare and endangered marine life in its pristine waters. With over 2.5% of the world's biodiversity in Costa Rica, these havens across the world remind us of the wonders nature holds and why conservation efforts are crucial. 🦜🐠

Responsible travel means more than sightseeing; it's about protecting our planet's wildlife. By choosing eco-friendly options and supporting local conservation efforts, we ensure these precious ecosystems thrive for generations. Let's make a difference together! 🐾🐾

Read all about this in our blog through clicking on link in our bio now 🤩
www.earth-changers.com > purpose > conservation

*(Richie, H. (2022) ‘Our World in Data’)

02/03/2024

10 Highlights re. & :

1/ : >80% 's habitats are in poor shape. Parliament adopts law to 20% of all & ; + at least 30% in poor condition by #2030, 60% by 2040, & 90% by 2050 https://www.europarl.europa.eu/news/en/press-room/20240223IPR18078/nature-restoration-parliament-adopts-law-to-restore-20-of-eu-s-land-and-sea

2/ / : Not sure , & ... (?) really count as London but still, ...> is most exposed city in world to air pollution from . 6 airports put capital ahead of & , 2nd-worst globally https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/feb/27/london-is-city-most-exposed-to-air-pollution-from-aviation-global-study-finds

3/ /Pollution: bill aims to restrict pollution: Legislation crack down on diesel-power by requiring liners to dock to ’s power grid https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/feb/27/new-york-city-cruise-ship-pollution-bill

4/ Climate: to ban some short-haul domestic flights of less than 2.5 hours with a alternative as part of its plan to reduce https://www.euronews.com/green/2024/02/23/spains-plan-to-ban-domestic-flights-where-you-can-take-a-train-in-under-two-and-half-hours

5/ Community/ : warned as popular city to introduce more charges, to explore , , set hot spot of culture, concerts, plays & fashion https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/seville-plaza-espana-square-star-wars-b2504582.html

6/ Conservation/Climate: -new restrictions for ships & activities in to protect unique , inc. cap on ship passengers & designated landing sites https://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/norway-implements-new-tourism-regulations-in-svalbard-for-wildlife-protecti/

7/ Climate: People displaced by in forced across to testify in 1st-of-kind hearing in https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/feb/29/hearing-forced-migration-climate-change-us-central-america

8/ Conservation: 's battle to defeat has taken a turn for the worse with the numbers killed rising in 2023 with 499 rhinos hunted, an increase of 51 from 2022 https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-68414362

9/ Conservation: Cardiac arrests, & 1.4 tonnes muscle. Here's how to move a https://www.theguardian.com/environment/gallery/2024/feb/14/saving-kenya-black-rhino-in-pictures-aoe

10/ /Conservation: crisis - the fight to save ’s beloved dish from https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/feb/29/risotto-crisis-the-fight-to-save-italys-beloved-dish-from-extinction-aoe

The Kenya Wildlife Service has successfully translocated 21 eastern black rhinos to a region where they have not roamed for 50 years. Here’s how they caught, transported and released these critically endangered creatures to their new home

27/02/2024

On World NGO Day, we come together to recognise and honour the incredible contributions made by non-governmental organizations (NGOs) worldwide. These organisations, driven by compassion and commitment, play a pivotal role in tackling a myriad of social, environmental, and humanitarian challenges. Whether operating at the local, national, or international level, NGOs embody the spirit of service, striving tirelessly to improve the lives of individuals and communities across the globe. 🌏
The significance of World NGO Day extends beyond mere acknowledgment; it provides a platform to amplify the voices of NGOs and shed light on their invaluable contributions. It serves as a reminder of the critical role they play in shaping our world for the better, fostering a sense of unity and collective responsibility….
So, we want to shed a light on our partners in and their mission for communities and ecosystems to thrive across the country 🇲🇬
With projects across a whole range of conservation programmes supporting species, environment, community and education, you’ll never quite know what volunteering will look like from day-to-day here!
This video shows the efforts going into one of the NGO’s school building projects in the rural village of Esinda - where building work that is usually scheduled for a week took volunteers only one day! Now that is what we call community engagement 🤩
🙌 You can get involved where it really matters - click on the link in bio to learn more!
www.earth-changers.com > places > Madagascar

26/02/2024

: “Love is not patronizing and charity isn’t about pity, it is about love. Charity and love are the same—with charity you give love, so don’t just give money but reach out your hand instead." ~ Mother Teresa

While we're still in the month of love, happy World NGO Day!
- An international day dedicated to recognise, celebrate and honour all non-governmental and non-profit organisations, and the people behind them that contribute to the society all year around.

📸 Supporting the local community in Madagascar, Harry explains rainwater harvesting. Enquire here to volunteer in conservation with our NGO partner: https://www.earth-changers.com/sustainable-places/madagascar

Have you ever helped the local community on your travels?

24/02/2024

: 10 Highlights re. &

1/ / : ‘Taking the pulse of the ’: could we monitor from space as we do the ?https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/feb/22/taking-the-pulse-of-the-planet-how-monitoring-nature-from-space-could-keep-earth-healthy

2/ : leads in revolutionary efforts: establishment of the Observatory for Tourism + proposed Tourism Task Force & EU Talent Pool for in travel https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/greece-leads-eu-in-revolutionary-tourism-sustainability-efforts/

3/ Conservation: One for planning: What spaces are best? gardens ‘most effective’ at cooling streets in https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/feb/23/botanical-gardens-most-effective-green-space-at-cooling-streets-in-heatwaves

4/ Conservation/ : , , & speak against resolution wording that has : UK says rights can only be held by legal entities. (Yet what of bill??) https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/feb/22/uk-government-can-never-accept-idea-nature-has-rights-delegate-tells-un

5/ Places/ / / : New controls on to be introduced in >seems fair balance, & a national registry a good thing; intrigued how they will police How ’s industry lobbied for a tax, and won https://www.positive.news/society/tourism-greenland-a-green-tax/

***Want to find & book positive , sustainable, regenerative ? Connect with us & our little black book***

7/ Places/Communities/Culture/Conservation: The case for , sustainable, tourism right here > How traditional is playing a key role in https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/feb/21/indigenous-food-hawaii-fire?

8 / Places/Communities/Culture: Old ways survive in despite mass tourism, but for how long? with its unique religion & depth is preparing for festival: is time working against culture? https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/2/17/old-ways-survive-in-bali-despite-mass-tourism-but-for-how-long

9/ Places/Conservation: Tranquil is a paradise for lovers but ‘Like the flip of a switch, it’s gone’: has the ecosystem of the ’s largest collapsed?https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/feb/19/like-the-flip-of-a-switch-its-gone-has-the-ecosystem-of-the-uk-largest-lake-collapsed-aoe

10/ Conservation/Climate/Commerce/Food: trade risks key . The , which featured in III, hosts 5% of 's and is a buffer against https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-68272643

Dismissal of concept already recognised in UN declarations described as shameful, contradictory and undemocratic

21/02/2024

Happy International Tourist Guide Day! 🎉 Today, we celebrate the incredible guides who bring destinations to life and make every trip truly unforgettable. 🗺️✨

🌱 Tourist guides often speak multiple languages, making them the ultimate polyglots of the travel world!

🌱 They know all the hidden gems and best-kept secrets of every destination.

🌱 They're the ultimate storytellers, bringing history and culture to life.

🌟 On this special day, we're also proud to spotlight our partner's Coral Park, nestled on an island off the coast of .

They're empowering local women through their Women Ranger Programs, equipping them with skills in patrolling, biophysical monitoring, boat diving, engine maintenance, swimming, in-water safety skills, environmental education, eco-tourism, guiding skills, and more! 🌊👩‍🔧

This initiative not only fosters women empowerment but also highlights the vital role women play in protecting our planet's natural wonders. 💪💛

Stay here and YOU will be contributing to this incredible work - click to enquire!
🔗 www.earth-changers.com > places > Tanzania
-tourism

20/02/2024

On World Social Justice Day, here at we’re reflecting on South Africa's journey from the shadows of apartheid to the beacon of activism for social justice it champions today. From the struggles of the past to the strides of the present, let's stand united and committed for a brighter and equal future for all. ✊🇿🇦

A true testament to this is our partner’s private nature reserve, whose business fuses together both social and climate justice in their extraordinary operations and foundation.❤️‍🔥

🤝 By engaging local communities in sustainable development initiatives, supporting education, and fostering entrepreneurship, they ensure that the benefits of conservation are shared equitably. Ranging from coaching soccer, computer training to clearing alien vegetation, all projects are replicable and scalable, with many generating their own income or becoming partially self-sustaining.

🤝 Furthermore, its commitment to preserving the biodiversity of the Cape Floral Kingdom contributes to climate justice by safeguarding vital ecosystems and mitigating the impacts of climate change. This reserve masterfully exemplifies the interconnectedness of social and environmental well-being, proving that by protecting nature, we also uplift and empower communities.

Stay here and you can contribute to this incredible work - click to enquire!

🔗 www.earth-changers.com > places > South Africa

19/02/2024

: "What I see everywhere in the world are ordinary people willing to confront despair, power, and incalculable odds in order to restore some semblance of grace, justice, and beauty to this world."~Paul Hawken, environmentalist, entrepreneur, author, economist, & activist Founder of Project Drawdown to reverse global warming.

[📸 Madagascar - volunteer to help conservation of the fragile environment, species, education and forest communities- enquire here https://www.earth-changers.com/sustainable-places/madagascar}

See the good in the world this World Day of Social Justice (tomorrow) week 😃

Dedicated to all those in the fight for a better world, be it environmental, social or political.

17/02/2024

10 Highlights re. & :

1/ : Sad world state>Migratory increasingly under threat, says : 44% of listed species are in decline; increasing extinction risk applies globally. 3/4 species affected by loss, 7/10 by overexploitation, including hunting as well as bycatch https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-68254027

2/ Conservation: brings in rules to force builders to compensate for loss of : must result in more or better habitat than before https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/feb/12/england-brings-in-biodiversity-net-gain-rules-to-force-builders-to-compensate-for-loss-of-nature

3/ Conservation/ : face starvation threat as ice melts, unable to adapt diets to living on land :( https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-68253819

4/ Conservation/Climate: may be de rigueur, but not always right & needs to thoroughly understand the : Ill-judged planting in threatens , scientists warn https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/feb/15/ill-judged-tree-planting-africa-threatens-ecosystems-scientists-warn

5/ Conservation: Human death toll rises to seven in project linked to https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2024/feb/16/prince-harry-malawi-elephant-relocation-project-dead-aoe

6/ : A 1-off $10 won't deter 'unruly behaviour', but revenue good for positive projects> launches $10 to preserve the ’s integrity https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/bali-2024-tourist-tax-b2496503.html

7/ Destinations: "Turning our into theme parks for ": hotspot overwhelmed, replaced by rentals as locals fight back https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1866794/spain-holiday-rentals-malaga-british-tourists

8/ Destinations/Sustainability: calls on EU to unlock full potential of Travel & Tourism as it exceeds records & predicts 10% in #2033 https://traveldailynews.com/organizations/wttc-calls-on-eu-to-unlock-full-potential-of-travel-amp-tourism-as-it-exceeds-employment-records/

9/ Sustainability: is big business, domestically & internationally. But how sustainable is it? Maybe not demand criteria 1, but expected > The searching for (er) ways to rock https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-67873127

10/ Sustainability: As UK faces administration, what can business learn? https://www.cityam.com/the-body-shop-why-the-high-street-icon-is-facing-administration-and-what-the-future-holds/

Melting ice is forcing this iconic Arctic species to spend more time on land, where they struggle for food.