Do you love days at the beach and sun, but are also concerned about protecting the environment? Then this data is for you!

How delicious is summer! Vacations, beach, swimming pool, afternoons on the terrace with friends and family are just some of the reasons that make this season a favorite for many. However, we must be aware that many of these scenarios have a negative impact on the planet and affect the natural environment. How to prevent that from happening while still having a good time? Here are four simple ideas for you to put into practice.

When selecting your destination, prefer sustainable sites! The starting point of the vacation is to define where to go and, from there, you can already make a difference. Give preference to the centers that are carrying out actions for the care of nature. In Chile there is a Sustainable Tourism Commitment Certificate that distinguishes restaurants, accommodations, tour operators, and travel agencies that have initiated their path towards sustainability, with concrete actions to reduce the impacts of their operations and contribute positively to the environment and communities.

If you go to the beach, you can be an agent of change! Of course, the recommendation is to never throw your garbage in the sand, but since that still happens, you can dedicate some of your time to pick up the garbage you find and deposit it in appropriate places. This is key, as different studies have shown that tourist use of beaches, specifically in Europe during the summer, is responsible for up to 80% of the marine litter that accumulates. Doing this can even be an entertaining plan with the kids. Team up for the planet and make it a fun time!

Protect yourself and marine species. How many times a day do you apply sunscreen? This is essential for our health, but unfortunately its chemicals can be very harmful to the living beings that inhabit the sea. In fact, according to National Geographic, each year about 14,000 tons of sunscreen end up in the world’s oceans and 82,000 chemicals from personal hygiene products could pollute the seas. So, before using them for yourself, find out the components of your cream and prefer biodegradable and natural formulations, ideally using containers made from recycled plastic.

Avoid single-use plastics. Whether you’re having a picnic, making a drink to cool off at the pool or wrapping up a tasty sandwich to take on your walk, remember to put away those plastics that will have a shelf life of less than 5 minutes and will take 500 years to disappear from the earth. Always opt for reusable or compostable alternatives. In Chile, I Am Not Plastic has innovative, airtight garbage bags, cling film and light bulbs that are as practical and convenient as plastic, but without the negative consequences. Why? Because they are made from biodegradable biopolymers and, if properly composted, biodegrade in only 180 days. You will be surprised at how easy and convenient they are to use!

You know, if you are a summer lover you can also take action for the planet. Follow these tips and learn more at www.iamnotplastic.cl