Each year, more than 900 million travelers hit the road, seas, skies and rails in search of new adventures, relaxing getaways and business opportunities. Naturally, that travel has a huge impact on local communities, economies and the environment. For nearly three decades, the United Nation's World Tourism Organization has recognized the importance of business and leisure travel with World Tourism Day, celebrated annually on September 27. This year, commemorate the holiday by committing to responsible travel choices.

A few tips to get you going...

• Start at Home. Before you leave the house, unplug any appliances that won't be in use while you're on vacation (i.e. computers, TVs and microwaves).
• Pack Light. The less you pack, the easier it'll be to get around -- and the less fuel required to operate your plane. (Why? Heavier planes consume more fuel.)
• Fly Nonstop. You'll be lessening your carbon footprint by traveling directly, and, again, using less fuel.
• Sign the Responsible Traveler Pledge. Demonstrate your support for sustainable travel by signing the Friends of the World Heritage Alliance online pledge, which asks travelers to follow simple sustainability creeds when traveling.
• Support Sustainable Businesses. Choose hotels and tour operators listed in the Rainforest Alliance's Eco-Index for Sustainable Tourism. It includes an assortment of Latin American tourism businesses that have been deemed environmentally and socially friendly by reputable environmental NGOs and certification organizations.
• Bring Your Eco-Attitude With You. Turn off lights when you leave your hotel room, minimize water use, and refuse daily towel and sheet changes.
• Respect Local Cultures. Read up on local conventions and dress appropriately. Ask before taking photos of people, and learn a few key words to help you converse with locals.
• Support Local Artisans. Instead of purchasing cheap souvenirs, select one or two high quality and locally made items. Don't haggle too aggressively -- be sure to pay a fair price.
• Give Back. Find ways to have a positive impact on the communities you visit -- pick up loose trash or make a small donation to a local park or wildlife preserve.
• Discover What's Endangered. Locals often sell clothing, jewelry and knick-knacks made from endangered species (i.e. reptile skins, ivory, animal furs and black coral). By refusing to buy these goods, you can help to lessen demand and conserve threatened and endangered species.
• Use Public Transportation. It's a great way to travel like a local and lesson your environmental impact.
• Purchase Offsets. Even conscientious travelers are responsible for greenhouse gas emissions. Purchase offsets when you get home to reduce the impact of your trip -- use a carbon calculator to determine your emissions.
• Support the Rainforest Alliance. A donation to the Rainforest Alliance will help to support our sustainable tourism program, which educates businesses, consumers and governments about the benefits of responsible tourism.

For more sustainable travel tips and tricks, visit our Web site.