sustainability – The Mindful Mermaid

An Eco Guide to The Cliffs of Moher and Aran Islands

June 4, 2017June 12, 2017Alex Cote

The longer I’ve lived on the Emerald Isle, the more I’ve become fascinated with its incredible landscape. Perhaps what’s most impressive is how hard Ireland works to preserve it.

During my visit to the West Coast of Ireland, I set out with Wild Atlantic Day Tours to see two of Ireland’s most majestic natural attractions: The Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands. From the spotless beaches of Inis Oirr, to the thriving Wildlife of the Cliffs, these sites are a must-see for eco-travelers and nature lovers.

A Conscious Approach to Water (World Water Day)

March 22, 2017March 22, 2017Alex Cote

In the early 1990s, the United Nations established March 22 as World Water Day in an effort to bring awareness to global water issues. Over 20 years later, water is perhaps more sacred than ever.
The water crisis is the number one global risk, based on impact to society. 1 in 10 people in the world lack access to safe water. Oh, and update: Flint, Michigan is STILL included in that figure.

As an environmentalist mermaid myself, I’d like to encourage us all to think more critically about water. That’s why I’d like to use World Water Day as an opportunity to highlight these critical issues and what you can do to help. Read more →

A Simple Breakdown of Major Airlines’ Sustainability Policies

February 23, 2017February 24, 2017Alex Cote

Correct dates and destination? Check. Affordable tickets? Check. Ensuring the airline optimizes fuel-efficient fleets with a robust waste management policy? Wait what?

Yep, I’m adding one important step to your travel-planning checklist. If you consider yourself someone who likes to travel and cares about the environment, then it’s time to do a bit of research about your airlines. Which airlines are “green-washing” hype and which ones are actually cutting emissions and investing in greener air transport? I’ve done a lot of the work for you. Read more →

My Commitment to the UN’s Year of Sustainable Tourism with Visit.org

January 10, 2017January 10, 2017Alex Cote

It is no secret to most that I am just as much an environmentalist social-justice advocate as I am a globetrotter. However, these identities can easily contradict each other.

As I discussed in my guide to sustainable travel, tourism is a powerful industry, yet it is without a doubt responsible for widespread wildlife, cultural, and environmental destruction. As travel is now becoming more affordable and accessible, it is crucial that we address this now. Read more →

5 Sustainable Style Tips Made Simple

November 6, 2016December 23, 2016Alex Cote

I used to be the girl with “nothing to wear” and an overflowing closet with cheap clothes. After burning through dozens of Forever 21 blouses and shoes with a 3-month lifespan, I realized that my purchasing patterns were not only hurting my wallet. I made the connection that my shopping habits supported a vicious, unsustainable industry. Read more →