Recently, I embarked on a road trip from the lush Swan Valley to the historic town of Albany. The journey was a reminder of how stunningly beautiful our backyard in Western Australia truly is. Each turn revealed another breathtaking view, whether it was the wildflowers dotting the landscape or the vast expanse of the Southern Ocean.
But amidst this natural beauty, a disheartening sight unfolded – the amount of litter scattered along Albany Highway. From plastic bags caught in the branches to what appeared to be old police tape wrapped around a tree, it was a jarring contrast to the natural splendor. It raised an important question: Are we doing enough to preserve the beauty that surrounds us?
This experience reaffirmed my commitment to eco-friendly travel and the importance of minimizing our environmental footprint – a philosophy that’s central to Cooper Delivered. So, here are some hair care tips for your travels, along with ways to reduce plastic waste.
Hair Care Tips for Eco-Friendly Travel
- Travel with Shampoo Bars: Shampoo bars, like those from Cooper Delivered, are not just compact and convenient for travel, but they also eliminate the need for plastic bottles. Plus, they’re multipurpose – you can use them for your hair, body, and even laundry in a pinch.
- Choose Plastic-Free Items: Apart from shampoo bars, pack other plastic-free items like bamboo toothbrushes, soap bars, and reusable containers. Every small step counts towards reducing our plastic footprint.
- Be Mindful of Waste Disposal: Always dispose of your waste responsibly. If you encounter areas without proper disposal facilities, take your rubbish with you until you can dispose of it properly.
- Embrace Eco-Friendly Styles: Opt for natural, easy-to-maintain hairstyles that don’t require heating tools or an array of products. Braids, buns, and natural waves are perfect for on-the-go elegance.
- Sun Protection for Hair: Protect your hair from the harsh Aussie sun. Wear a hat or scarf, or use hair products with UV protection.
- Freshwater Rinse After Beach Visits: The beaches along the route to Albany are irresistible. Remember to rinse your hair with freshwater after a swim to prevent damage from saltwater.
- Carry a Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially on long drives, with a reusable water bottle. It’s a simple yet effective way to reduce plastic waste.
- Support Local, Eco-Friendly Businesses: When you stop in towns like Albany, support local businesses that prioritize sustainability. It’s a great way to contribute to the local economy and encourage eco-friendly practices.
- Reflect and Act: Seeing the litter along Albany Highway was a stark reminder of the impact of our actions. Let’s take these observations as a call to action, not just in our travel habits but in our daily lives as well.
- Share Your Journey: Document and share your eco-friendly travel experiences. Inspiring others can have a ripple effect, leading to more environmentally conscious travelers.
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Swan Valley to Albany was an eye-opening experience that highlighted both the natural wonders of Western Australia and the urgent need to protect them. As we explore and appreciate these landscapes, let’s also commit to preserving them for future generations. Simple changes in our travel routines, like switching to shampoo bars and reducing plastic use, can make a significant difference. Together, we can ensure that the journey is as beautiful as the destination.
Need your products to start the challenge? Shop our eco-friendly travel essentials and learn more about sustainable practices.