The Park of the Gole della Breggia in Ticino is a real open-air museum, in fact for UNESCO this Geopark is a real model. This is a protected natural area in Switzerland in the southernmost part of Canton Ticino.

The peculiarity of this Park is certainly its geology: in fact, it is a precious casket for biodiversity. But, in addition to this, this natural area shows the local industry and the economic history of Ticino. The park aims to protect the different geological elements found here, as well as the natural and cultural elements.

Once here, you will be able to take a journey through time, from the more than 200 million years that the rocks will tell you about. Add to this the fascination of 2000 years of human history: from Roman tombs, through the mills, to the concrete industry. And all this thanks to the Breggia torrent, which reveals it in just under a couple of kilometers!

Experiences at the Park of the Gole della Breggia in Ticino

You can choose either to visit the park on your own or to be accompanied by a tour guide. We suggest this second option to be able to fully appreciate it. What is certain is that, once here, you will be able to relax yourself while walking surrounded by nature.

But let’s discover together some of the experiences that you cannot miss at the Park of the Gole della Breggia in Ticino!

Journeys through Time and Nature

The Breggia torrent has created gorges that are one of the most important geological sites south of the Alps. It is the water that slowly but inexorably excavates the flint limestone, the oldest rocks in the upper part of the park. The route is suitable for everyone.

Why should you have this experience? Because understanding what the past is like can help you better understand the present!

Journey through Human Time

This experience will take you back in time to the Roman Tombs of the 3rd century A.D. and also to the first mills of the 13th century. And you will also be able to admire the Chiesa Rossa (red church) which is one of the monuments of national interest, with its Gothic frescoes that are the richest in Canton Ticino. The route is suitable for everyone.

Concrete Route

With this route, you will be able to do the same route that more than one and a half million cubic metres of majolic and flake have done, from the quarries, to the oil mill and on to the furnace tower, where they were processed and transformed into concrete. Today, an educational and exhibition space is set up in this former place of processing. The route is not recommended for those suffering from claustrophobia, epilepsy, heart or respiratory problems. Helmets, lamps, and vests are provided by the park.

Ecological Path

This is like a microcosm where special climatic conditions, combined with the permeability of the karst soil, have given rise to microclimates alongside gorges and ponds, resulting in unique biodiversity. The suite is suitable for everyone.

Didactic grinding

What could be better than enjoying the smell of the freshly milled wheat and feeling like a little miller at least for a day? Nothing! Then take part in the didactic grinding at the Mulino del Ghitello (Ghitello mill).

It is an artifact dating back to 1696 with a mill with millstones for wheat, cereals, and corn and also an oil mill for pressing nuts and linseed. This experience is suitable for everyone,

The duration of the various routes is about 3 hours and for all the other information you can click here.

The article Park of the Gole della Breggia in Ticino was originally posted on Ecobnb.

To reduce packaging waste, that is 40% of all the plastic in Europe, the European Commission bans single-use plastic and plastic shampoo bottles in hotels

The new regulation on packaging by the European Commission bans some types of unnecessary plastic packaging, such as single-use packaging for food and drinks (sugar sachets and single-dose sauces), single-use plastic packaging for fruit and vegetables (with a weight lower than 1,5 kg), mini hotel cosmetic and toiletries products (such as shampoos and soaps). The goals that the European Commission has adopted are: prevent the production of packaging waste, promote reuse and make all packagings recyclable before 2030. According to the last European Commission’s report, about 40% of all the plastic and 50% of the paper in the EU are used in packaging. Without an intervention in the European territory, there will be an additional increase of 19% of packaging waste before 2030.

New banning in Europe: goodbye to shampoo bottles and soap in hotels

Hotels will have to say goodbye permanently to single-use plastic, therefore to 50 ml bottles of shampoo and shower gel, an initiative that the accomodation facilities that are a part of Ecobnb have long implemented, trying to reduce unnecessary packaging. The eco-friendly hotels that are part of Ecobnb are in fact provided with reusable dispensers for shampoos, shower gels and soaps. The same needs to happen in all the European accomodation facilities before 2040, that instead of single-use toiletry products, will have to use bigger dispensers and remove single-use mini cosmetic and toiletry products.

The aim of this measure is to reduce packaging waste by 15% per person for the citizens of each member state of the European Union before 2040, compared to the levels of 2018. This means reducing by 37% the amount of waste produced in the EU, compared to a scenario in which the regulation remains the same.

The article Goodbye to single-use plastic in hotels in Europe was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Would you like to organize a holiday in Assisi while respecting nature? Here are the best eco-friendly farmhouses and B&B in the spiritual heart of Umbria. Assisi is a well-known destination for its charm and attractiveness. The Saint Clare’s Basilica, the Saint Damian’s church, and the Basilica of Saint Francis are worth a visit. The place is the perfect destination if you love relaxing holidays, as well as if you are looking for an active holiday. Starting from Assisi with your bike you can discover other typical Umbrian borghi (villages) along the bike path Assisi-Spoleto, which along its 60 km crosses beautiful locations, such as Cannara, Bevagna, Trevi. You will cycle in the middle of nature and the Umbrian countryside while enjoying the idyllic surroundings. If you are looking for a truly relaxing and sustainable holiday close to nature, Assisi offers several eco-friendly accommodation options. From eco-friendly farmhouses in the Assisi countryside to amazing bed & breakfasts in the historic center, let’s discover the greenest locations close to Assisi.

An Eco-Friendly Bed & Breakfast in the Historic Centre

La viola B&B is a historical house located in the historic centre of Assisi, close to all of the main attractions of the city and equipped with three rooms, renovated with care and attention to sustainability.

Why it’s eco-friendly: it’s reachable without car, arriving in Santa Maria degli Angeli by train and then taking a bus to the centre of Assisi. The B&B uses eco-friendly cleaning products and energy-saving LED bulbs.

Not to be missed: the Saint Clare’s Basilica, the Cathedral of San Rufino, the Piazza del Comune and the main church with the Temple of Minerva are all worth a visit. Do not forget to visit the Basilica of Saint Francis!

An Eco-Friendly Farmhouse at the foot of Mount Subasio

Malvarina, one of the best eco-friendly farmhouses in Umbria, is located at the foot of Monte Subasio, an 11-minute drive from Assisi. It offers a panoramic view of the surrounding nature. The rooms and the rustic houses are the result of the architectural recovery of an old farmhouse.

Why it’s eco-friendly: it’s reachable without a car and it offers a bicycle rental service. It removed single-use products and uses ecological cleaning products.

Not to be missed: the traditional dishes of the Umbrian cuisine, cooked with love with products that come from their organic farm, such as extra-virgin olive oil.

A relaxed and welness Holiday

Un Casolare in Paradiso is located just a few kilometers from Assisi and it’s the perfect place if you want to enjoy peace and quiet in the middle of Umbrian nature. It’s the perfect location for those of you who love horses, given that the farmhouses are inside a farm that breeds horses.

Why it’s eco-friendly: the farmhouse pays special attention to its environmental impact, there’s recovery and reuse of rainwater, the lightbulbs are energy-saving lights, and “eco” activities are promoted.

Not to be missed: the outdoor swimming pool with a breathtaking view of the mountains, the yurta and the sauna in the woods.

A Farmhouse surrounded by Greenery to Know the Alpaca

The eco B&B and holiday farm the Path in the Woods is a 15-minute drive from Foligno and a 28-minute drive from Assisi. It is the perfect place to relax and escape from the daily life. If you spend the night here, we suggest visiting the places nearby, such as Rasiglia, the famous brook’s village.

Why it’s eco-friendly: it uses solar panels to warm water. Moreover, the electricity comes from 100% renewable energy.

Not to be missed: the animals in the garden, such as alpaca, bees, etc… They also offer courses on alpaca wool spinning and on natural soaps.

The most Scenic and Eco-friendly Farmhouse

The family-run farmhouse La Mora, located in Santa Maria degli Angeli, with a breathtaking view of Assisi, is perfect for a family holiday. The property has a swimming pool, a playground, and a soccer field.

Why it’s eco-friendly: the farmhouse offers organic and zero-kilometer food, they use water flow reducers, and more than 80% recycling is carried out.

Not to be missed: the local and organic products, such as extra-virgin olive oil, jams, and seasonal fruit.

An Organic Farmhouse to Enjoy Nature

The Holiday Farm San Lorenzo is an eco-friendly accommodation facility surrounded by the unspoiled nature of Umbria, in Valfabbrica, close to Gubbio, Assisi, Perugia, Spello and Spoleto. Suitable for a family holiday, full of relaxation and good food. If you like to walk we recommend that you walk part of the St. Francis’ Way, from Valfabbrica to Assisi.

Why it’s eco-friendly: energy comes from photovoltaic solar panels and the products that are used are all organic and 0-kilometer.

Not to be missed: the summer English camps for children from 7 to 12 years old and the paths of educational farm for all ages, to learn more about the animals and the flora and fauna found here.

The Umbrian Farmhouse with the Best Homemade Food

The agriturismo Il Corniolo is a magic place near Canneto, a small town and only a 10-minute drive from Perugia and about 40 minutes from Assisi. If you prefer to travel with more sustainable means of transport, at the entrance of the farmhouse you will find a bus that leads to the centre of Perugia. The apartments are housed in a recently renovated old farmhouse.

Why it’s eco-friendly: the organic and 0-kilometer food, the flour, the pasta, and the crackers are made with wheat coming from their fields. Even the jams are produced with organic fruit from their orchards. The farmhouse recycles over 80% of its waste and engages in various projects to support the local economy.

Not to be missed: if you love nature and walks this farmhouse is the right place for you! Around the farmhouse there are fields where you can go for walks and a few miles away Mount Tezio and Mount Malbe offer many paths.

What is your dream place between these eco-friendly farmhouses and bed & breakfast in Assisi?

The article Top 7 Eco-Friendly Farmhouses and Bed & Breakfast to Discover Assisi was originally posted on Ecobnb.

Sustainable living in rental properties presents its own set of hurdles. Yet, it’s entirely achievable and vital for our planet. This blog post aims to guide renters on infusing eco-friendly practices into their living spaces. Despite common constraints like agreement limitations and the temporary nature of leases, small yet impactful changes can make a big difference. From energy conservation to waste reduction, we’ll explore practical solutions that tenants can easily adopt. Our goal is to empower you with knowledge and tips for a greener lifestyle within your rental, making sustainable living a concept and a reality.

The Challenges of Sustainable Living in Rental Properties

Living sustainably in leased spaces brings unique hurdles. Landlords frequently impose restrictions on major changes to the property, making it difficult for tenants to implement significant eco-friendly improvements. It also means that adding large water-saving devices or solar panels, for example, might be impossible.

Equally, the temporary nature of renting discourages investment in long-term sustainability initiatives. Why invest money in a house you might leave soon? Furthermore, renters who might not immediately see a return on their spending may be turned off by the upfront price of eco-friendly appliances and fixtures.
Yet, despite these barriers, renters have a plethora of creative avenues to tread lightly on the planet without breaking their lease agreements or the bank. To participate in this endeavor, one must be creative, open to making minor adjustments, and dedicated to changing the things that are under one’s direct control.

Energy Efficiency Tips

Energy-efficient living in a rented house requires resourceful planning. You can drastically lower your carbon footprint and utility costs with a few easy changes. Here are some crucial pointers to get you going:

• Optimize Heating and Cooling
• Illuminate Smartly
• Choose Efficient Appliances

Start with one change at a time, and soon, you’ll notice a significant impact on your energy consumption and overall environmental footprint.

Optimize Heating and Cooling

Smart thermostats are revolutionary for tenants who want to save energy. These gadgets ensure comfort while conserving energy by adjusting the temperature following your routines. This device is ideal for temporary living conditions because it is easy to install and portable. Besides, their ability to be controlled remotely via smartphone apps means you can adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere, further enhancing energy savings and convenience.

Illuminate Smartly

Making the transition to LED lighting is a wise move in terms of energy efficiency. LED lights last far longer than conventional incandescent bulbs and consume at least 75% less energy. This switch lowers the frequency of lightbulb changes and lowers your energy consumption.

Choose Efficient Appliances

Choosing energy-efficient equipment will significantly save your electricity costs. Look for portable appliances with the Energy Star designation, which denotes excellent shopping efficiency. Over time, even modest decisions, such as purchasing an energy-efficient toaster or kettle, can result in significant energy savings.

Water Conservation Strategies

Promoting sustainable living in rental properties requires water conservation at its core. First, installing low-flow showerheads and faucets can significantly decrease water consumption. Tenants can reduce their utility expenses and contribute to environmental conservation by installing these simple-to-install gadgets, which have a substantial impact.

Then, it’s very important to address leaks right away. Over time, even little leaks might result in significant water waste. Renters may usually take care of little repairs independently or quickly alert their landlords to take care of the problem. Lastly, incorporating water-saving activities into daily routines makes them environmentally beneficial. Small actions can have a large impact, like turning off the faucet while brushing your teeth or only doing dishes by hand when the sink is full.

Combining these tactics improves eco-friendly living in rented spaces and promotes a responsible and resourceful culture. Engaging in these practices, renters contribute to a larger movement towards ecological preservation.

Waste Reduction and Recycling

It takes vision and dedication to tackle recycling and trash reduction. First of all, not only homeowners should compost. Renters can turn kitchen leftovers into useful plant food using small compost containers for cramped spaces. Second, a strong recycling program improves environmental friendliness, even in small areas. Sort things easily using bins with labels to ensure nothing recyclable is wasted. Thirdly, there is a large reduction in waste when single-use plastics are used less. Whenever feasible, use reusable containers, bags, and utensils to reduce waste significantly over time.
Tenants who participate in these activities help the environment and develop a feeling of shared responsibility and community. These realistic and doable measures towards an eco-conscious lifestyle are encouraging, as they demonstrate a growing trend towards sustainability in all homes, regardless of size or ownership status.

Green Cleaning and Non-Toxic Living

Transitioning to sustainable living in rental homes is a wise choice for a green lifestyle. Make your cleaning solutions first. Baking soda, vinegar, and lemon juice are all excellent ingredients. They do the job of cleaning well without using harsh chemicals. This method saves the environment and your health at the same time.

Choosing non-toxic personal care products also lessens your environmental impact. Nowadays, brands provide environmentally friendly substitutes for the environment and your health. Making these modifications in rented homes encourages a healthier way of life and helps create a more environmentally friendly world. When it comes to a sustainable future, every little move matters.

Closing Lines

Embracing sustainable living in rental properties can significantly impact our environment and personal well-being. Luckily, renters have myriad ways to incorporate eco-friendly practices into their lifestyles. Small changes, from energy-saving gadgets to water conservation and waste reduction, lead to big differences. Engaging with your community through activities like community gardens and swap meets also fosters a collective effort toward sustainability. As we wrap up, remember that every step towards eco-conscious living makes a difference. Start small, stay consistent, and share your success to inspire others. Together, we can make sustainable living a norm in every leased space.

Cover image: photo via Pexels

Author Bio: Sarah Thompson is a seasoned writer passionate about eco-friendly living and minimalism. She shares her expert insights on the Golans Moving and Storage blog, a reliable and reputable company in the moving industry, guiding readers on sustainable moving and living. Her work empowers readers to transform their spaces into green havens. With Sarah’s advice, living sustainably becomes achievable regardless of where you live.

The article Smart Solutions for Sustainable Living in Rental Properties was originally posted on Ecobnb.

We all know that getting around by bicycle instead of car would benefit us and the planet. But still few of us are willing to change our habits: we would rather waste half an hour in the car, stuck in traffic than take the bike (yes, I know you have an unused one hidden in the basement too!). Continue to read to find out 5 good reasons to start cycling today!

1. Cycling helps the cardiovascular system

Cycling is an aerobic activity, which means that as you cycle observing your city (noticing details you’d never notice if you had taken the car) you are also training your heart and lungs. It is one of the forms of exercise recommended by the NHS to reduce the risk of developing heart disease.

2. Cycling improves mood

Exercising generates the production of endorphins, which improve mood and reduce depression and anxiety.

3. Cycling saves money (and time!)

Cycling to work is free, plus cycling saves you traffic and finding a parking space.

4. Cycling helps you lose weight

One hour of cycling is equivalent to 500 calories burned. Combining a daily cycle ride with a healthy diet will help you keep your weight under control and lose those extra kilos.

5. Cycling reduces carbon footprint by 84 per cent

A study shows that those who cycle daily generate 84% less CO2 emissions than those who do not.

In conclusion, it has been proven that cycling is beneficial for the environment, for our health, for our pocket, for our performance and even for our brain!

What are you waiting for? I want to see you dust off your bike and start using it, starting today! Which one of these reasons to start cycling convinced you the most?

The article 5 good reasons to start cycling today was originally posted on Ecobnb.