Everyone is concerned by the ecological transition. Dozens of small daily gestures contribute to make us more respectful of the environment. And we know that there is an urgent need to address global warming and its consequences on fauna, flora and human beings. As President Emmanuel Macron reminded us recently, France is behind in reducing carbon emissions and the country must "double" its "rate of effort" to reach the targets set for 2030. At home, everyone can adopt more ecological habits on a daily basis, but also increase their well-being by being more in contact with nature. Are you also the owner of a house that is offered for rent to travelers? Don't hesitate to encourage your tenants to spend a "greener" vacation by showing them your eco-friendly habits. How can you do this? We tell you everything in the following lines.
Use eco-friendly household products
Many household products contain controversial ingredients that are harmful to your health (skin or respiratory tract) and to nature. If you have decided to make your own household products from natural ingredients, you can also make them available to holidaymakers for the maintenance of the house you rent out. On the online ad or in a small logbook on site, the best thing to do is to explain your approach in order to make people aware of its importance.
For example, by mixing one third of white vinegar, two thirds of water and a tablespoon of baking soda in a spray bottle, you will obtain an effective and environmentally friendly multi-purpose spray. Alternatively, with shavings of Marseille soap, water, soda crystals and a few drops of essential oils, this time you'll get a great homemade, eco-friendly laundry!
Set up corners where you can be in contact with nature
Nature, the one we try to preserve as much as possible with more ecological habits in our daily lives, is also an essential element for our well-being. In 2021, Cecil Konijnendijk van den Bosch, professor and director of the Nature-based Solutions Institute and Program at the University of British Columbia (UBC) in Canada, highlights in an article the 3-30-300 rule. In summary, she demonstrates that our mental health is improved when 3 trees are visible from our windows; there is 30% green space in the neighborhood, and a park or green space is within 300 m of our home.
When you are lucky enough to have a garden at home and in the residence offered for rent, it is essential to green the space by planting trees, shrubs, flowers and by creating a small watering place. Trees are excellent natural air conditioners, so don't hesitate to place a table and chairs for meals in the shade of their branches, as well as a relaxation area with garden furniture such as sunbeds, armchairs and a small outdoor table.
Make soft transportation available for walks
Did you know that according to a study from the University of Birmingham in Alabama, spending 20 minutes a day outside is recommended for better physical and mental health? Don't have time to go out during the week because of a busy schedule? You can for example use an electric scooter to go to work - different types of scooters can be found on gyro-phare.com - and at the same time spend time outside and take care of the environment by using an ecological way of travelling.
In the vacation home, encourage the tenants to take part in a more eco-friendly vacation by providing them with bicycles to discover the surrounding nature. An electric scooter or two can also be provided, which will please the kids and even the adults when they need to run an errand.
Owners of your own home and vacation home, there are simple solutions for a daily life that combines ecological transition and well-being.
