Navigating Plastic-Free Paths in South East Asia

Photograph: Jess Taylor | Location: Lake Toba, North Sumatra, Indonesia

In an era of conscious consumption, sustainable travel has emerged as a vital consideration for those fortunate enough to explore the world.

I recently embarked on a two-month journey through the awe-inspiring landscapes of South East Asia. However, the allure of diverse cultures and flavours was often overshadowed by the staggering amount of plastic waste that dominates the region.

This experience helped me recognise an opportunity for fellow conscientious travellers to embrace sustainability and make a positive impact, all while relishing the joy of discovery and connection.

The Challenges at Hand

Excited and hungry, my partner and I landed in Kuala Lumpur ready to experience all that Malaysia had to offer. To our delight, this was plentiful, given the melting pot of Chinese-Malay and Indian inspired dishes on offer.

Yet, as we delved into the fruitful array of dishes, our excitement turned to concern. Plastic straws accompanied nearly every beverage, and plastic bags seemed to be ubiquitous, even serving as makeshift cups.

In the midst of this disheartening sight, it's important to acknowledge the commendable efforts undertaken by many people and the Malaysian government to become more sustainable. Something that really inspired hope within me was my observation of every second or third radio advertisement being about sustainability and/or mental health.

While local communities in South East Asia grapple with more immediate needs, it's essential to remember that sustainability is a shared journey. As privileged travellers, we hold a unique responsibility to initiate change and support the ongoing sustainability efforts of local communities. Armed with knowledge about the consequences of plastic, it's on us to lead the way towards sustainable practices and amplify the positive impact of these collective endeavours.

Word of Mouth

During a particularly enjoyable meal at a local vegan eatery, Mario's Restaurant, in Lake Toba, I learned of the environmental challenges unique to the region, such as the reliance on palm oil.

The lovely owner of the restaurant, Katie told me that decades ago palm oil was discovered to be a more sustainable oil substitute given the amount of oil that could be acquired per harvest. However due to the high demands of cheap food (often driven by Western appetites), these practices soon became unsustainable and has led to the destruction of essential habitats for local fauna and the erosion of the quality of soil, making it harder and harder to grow each time.

Photograph: Jess Taylor | Location: Lake Toba, North Sumatra, Indonesia

Whilst I was already conscious of avoiding foods with palm oil, this newly acquired knowledge reinstated my drive to avoid food and drink items containing palm oil.

Contrarily, I found inspiration in Malaysian cuisine, like the phenomenal Nasi Lemak, beautifully wrapped in banana leaves—a sustainable alternative that not only contributes to reducing plastic waste but also enhances the flavours of the traditional dish.

I was also ecstatic to find some local restaurants in Lake Toba offering us to take away food in brown paper rather than plastic.

Photograph: Jess Taylor | Location: Lake Toba, North Sumatra, Indonesia

Time to walk the walk

Armed with items I brought from home, I endeavoured to incorporate local dialects into my vocabulary, attempting, often poorly, to request "No straw, please." While not without its challenges, this simple effort reduced my straw usage throughout our time abroad.

Photograph: Jess Taylor | Location: Penang, Malaysia

As another way to curb plastic, my partner and I consistently carried a reusable fabric tote bag, ensuring that our purchases didn't necessitate plastic bags.

Raising a Toast to Eco-Friendly Eating

The journey reaffirmed that while sustainable travel requires commitment and adaptation, it's entirely feasible with conscious choices. Here are some sustainable alternatives that can make a difference:

• Reusable water bottles: Something as simple as carrying around your own reusable water bottle can help reduce the demand for plastic bottles and does wonders for your health too - win-win!

My very clever mother has even made my water bottles a fashion accessory with her "Aqua Buddy".

I absolutely love mine as it's so great for taking on walks/hikes to not have to hold the bottle the entire time.

If you'd like one too, feel free to contact me at jesstaylor.designer@gmail.com.

• Metal, reusable razor: Brands like Kappi offer eco-friendly alternatives to disposable razors, minimising plastic waste.

• Menstrual cup: Explore options like Lunette for a sustainable and hygienic alternative to single-use menstrual products.

• Period undies: Brands like Rudie provide period underwear that reduces the need for disposable menstrual products.

• Compostable toothbrush: Opt for eco-friendly toothbrush options that decompose without harming the environment. It’s even better if you can hold off disposing it until you’re back home (if you already compost).

• Shampoo and conditioner bars: Ethique offers compact, plastic-free alternatives for hair care.

• Bar soap: Swap liquid soap for solid bars to reduce plastic packaging.

• Reusable shopping bags: Carry reusable canvas or fabric bags and remember to reuse them, minimising unnecessary consumption.

• Buy local: Support local artisans and communities, fostering economic growth and minimising carbon emissions from transportation.

Food for thought

Sustainable travel in regions like South East Asia is both an opportunity and a responsibility. By weaving sustainable practices into our travel experiences, we can make meaningful contributions to local communities and the planet.

While the allure of exploring new cultures remains strong, let us not forget the power we possess as privileged travellers to inspire change, support sustainability, and leave behind a trail of positive impact.

So, let's walk the walk to embrace conscious choices that enrich our lives while nurturing the world we share.