How travel affects our microbiome and the Earth's ecosystem

Traveling allows us to discover new places, get to know different cultures, and gather unforgettable experiences. We can quickly perceive that these travels have an impact on us. But are you also aware that while exploring the world, we directly influence our environment and even our own microbiome?

In this article, we take a look at the connections between travel, the microbiome, the ecosystem of nature, and the importance of sustainable travel.

Changes in the Microbiome

Traveling leads us to visit new places and explore different environments. Each environment has its own microbiome, whether it’s the soil, water, or air. By going to new places, we come into contact with new microorganisms that can influence our own microbiome. Our microbiome is sensitive to environmental changes. For example, exotic bacteria and viruses we encounter while traveling can affect our microbiome. Changes in the microbial community can lead to digestive problems or infections. Therefore, it is important to practice hygiene measures such as regular handwashing to minimize the transmission of pathogens. Probiotics can also help strengthen your microbiome.

Microplastics and Ecosystems

When traveling, we often unintentionally expose ourselves to microplastics. Cosmetic products, sunscreens, and plastic packaging are potential sources of tiny plastic particles that enter the environment and can have significant impacts there. These microplastic particles can pollute marine ecosystems and enter the food chain, harming marine life. It is important to use environmentally friendly alternatives and reduce our plastic consumption to minimize such impacts.

Sustainable Subscriptions and Refill Systems

Are you familiar with our sustainable subscription? Especially our 6-month subscription is particularly sustainable. Why? Because the 6-month delivery cycle saves an enormous amount of packaging material and CO2. There is no patent solution to combat the effects of carbon dioxide on our atmosphere and the climate crisis. However, at mybacs® we are committed to various regeneration projects that support ecosystems on Earth. You see, refill solutions are worthwhile not only when you bring your own water bottle while traveling but also with us. This way, you save not only CO2 and packaging material but also money and support our planet. And always remember, just as the tiny microorganisms in your body have a big impact, the smallest changes you make can also have a great impact on our planet. 

Speaking of: Small Change, Big Impact

Besides avoiding single-use plastics, there are other simple steps we can take while traveling to minimize our environmental impact. 

• These include supporting local, sustainable businesses and respecting natural and cultural heritage sites. Through conscious choices, we can help protect the environment while also

• Even while traveling, you can minimize your energy consumption. Turn off the lights when you leave the room and use air conditioning or heating only when truly necessary. Save water by taking short showers and reusing towels multiple times.

• Dispose of your waste properly and separate it into recycling bins when possible. If you are at a beach or nature reserve, take your trash with you and leave nothing but footprints.
• Choose sustainable accommodations whenever possible. Many hotels and lodgings today focus on sustainability, whether through solar power, water recycling, or using locally sourced food. Ideally, you also directly support local accommodations by booking stays in small hotels, guesthouses, or bed & breakfasts run by local operators instead of large hotel chains. This supports the local economy and promotes culture.
  
  

Can Probiotics Influence Planet Health?

Research shows that probiotics—live microorganisms that can have a positive effect on health—can be beneficial not only for our own microbiome but also have the potential to support the health of the planet. For example, probiotics could help combat bee colony collapse by strengthening the immune defenses of honeybees. Similarly, microbial treatments could be used to prevent coral reef bleaching or improve plant health. Exploring such applications is an exciting field that may open new ways to promote the health of microbiomes in humans and nature alike.

Conclusion

Our travel choices impact our own microbiome and the natural ecosystem. By adopting a sustainable lifestyle while traveling, protecting our health, and choosing environmentally friendly alternatives, we can help maintain the balance in both ecosystems. It is important to understand the connections between the microbiome, nature, and travel to make conscious decisions and ultimately create a symbiotic relationship between our own health and the health of the planet.