Are you a clean traveler? Besides the footprints, have you left anything behind that is detrimental to the place you visited? Besides the memories, have you taken away anything that could cost the destination? These are the questions each of us should ask ourselves before, during and after our holidays. Travel and tourism often are the reasons why a place is on the map, and why it attracts so much attention, tourists and revenue. But irresponsible travel and tourism can also jeopardize the very ecological balance of the environment. A quick glance at the popular holidaying spots at mountains, beaches, jungles would throw up pictures of grimy places littered with the leftovers by tourists. Flora and fauna get affected with many species now entering the endangered list due to a lack of responsibility and sensitivity from tourists, administration and locals alike.

Various organizations, NGOs and local groups are involved in efforts to keep the environment clean and healthy. Besides educating the society on ecological hazards, they also organize events that range from caring for your locality to contributing to save the planet. Last year Google Map launched the International Cleanup Weekend which aimed to promote the cleanliness attitude of travellers. During the launch period, which was the 13th and 14th of October, Google urged all the people to clean up the neighborhood. They are also encouraging local groups to publish online itineraries of their clean up projects so that other groups can also join in.