How to Explore Ireland Sustainably
Tuesday 22nd April 2025
Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes, from the rugged Cliffs of Moher to the lush rolling hills of the countryside, have captivated travellers for centuries. As more visitors discover the Emerald Isle’s charm, sustainable tourism has become increasingly important to preserve Ireland’s natural beauty and cultural heritage for future generations. Here’s how you can explore Ireland responsibly while still enjoying everything this magical country has to offer.
Choose Eco-Friendly Transportation
How you travel around Ireland significantly impacts your carbon footprint. While public transport is an excellent option for city exploration, Ireland’s most magnificent sights are often tucked away in remote corners of the countryside.
For the most flexible and environmentally conscious exploration, consider hiring a fuel-efficient or hybrid vehicle from Easirent Ireland. Our fleet includes numerous low-emission options that allow you to reduce your carbon footprint while still enjoying the freedom to discover hidden gems along Ireland’s scenic routes. Many of our newer vehicles feature start-stop technology and eco-driving modes that further minimise environmental impact.
Support Local Businesses and Communities
One of the most effective ways to practise sustainable tourism is by directing your spending toward local businesses:
- Choose family-run B&Bs and guesthouses over international hotel chains
- Dine at restaurants that source ingredients locally and seasonally
- Shop at farmers’ markets and craft fairs for authentic souvenirs
- Book tours with smaller, locally owned operators who often have deeper connections to the areas they showcase
By keeping your tourism euros within local communities, you help sustain traditional ways of life and ensure authentic Irish culture continues to thrive.
Visit During Shoulder Seasons
Ireland’s peak tourism season runs from June to August, putting pressure on popular destinations and infrastructure. Consider visiting during spring (April-May) or autumn (September-October) when the weather is still pleasant but crowds are thinner. This approach helps distribute tourism impact more evenly throughout the year and often results in a more relaxed, authentic experience for you as well.
Practise Leave No Trace Principles
Ireland’s natural landscapes are delicate ecosystems that require careful protection:
- Stay on marked trails when hiking to prevent erosion and damage to plant life
- Carry out all waste, including biodegradable items like fruit peels
- Respect wildlife by observing from a distance and never feeding animals
- Leave natural items like rocks, plants, and wildflowers where you find them
- Follow fire regulations and restrictions, particularly in forested areas
The Irish countryside’s beauty depends on visitors treating it with respect and care.
Conserve Resources
While travelling, be mindful of your resource consumption:
- Take shorter showers and reuse towels when staying in accommodations
- Bring reusable water bottles, coffee cups, and shopping bags
- Turn off lights and heating/cooling when leaving your accommodation
- Opt out of daily room cleaning if staying multiple nights at the same place
These small actions collectively make a significant difference in reducing the environmental impact of tourism.
Respect Protected Sites
Ireland’s ancient monuments, stone circles, and historic ruins have survived for thousands of years. Help preserve them for future generations by:
- Never climbing on stone structures
- Avoiding touching carvings or other features
- Staying behind barriers and following site guidelines
- Supporting conservation efforts through official donations
Remember that many sites have cultural and spiritual significance to local communities, deserving respectful behaviour from visitors.
Choose Certified Sustainable Options
Look for businesses with recognised sustainability certifications such as Ecotourism Ireland, Green Hospitality Award, or Sustainable Travel Ireland accreditation. These organisations have met specific environmental and social responsibility criteria.
Reduce Single-Use Plastics
Ireland’s coastlines and waterways face growing challenges from plastic pollution. Do your part by:
- Declining plastic straws and cutlery
- Carrying reusable alternatives for takeaway food and drinks
- Participating in beach clean-ups if you encounter them during your travels
- Choosing products with minimal packaging
Embrace Slow Travel
Rather than racing to check attractions off your list, consider spending more time in fewer locations. This approach reduces transport emissions while fostering deeper connections with places and people. Ireland’s charm often reveals itself most fully when you take time to settle in, chat with locals, and discover hidden corners off the typical tourist track.
