Sustainability on the Camino de Santiago: greener and better-cared-for routes

Did you know that more and more municipalities on the Camino de Santiago are committing to sustainability? Discover the concrete initiatives that are transforming the route

In recent years, several municipalities along the Camino de Santiago have launched innovative measures to protect the environment and improve the experience of pilgrims.

Many towns have adopted measures to eliminate single-use plastics and promote clean energy sources in hostels and public spaces.

• Drinking water fountains to refill reusable bottles.
• LED lighting and solar panels in municipal facilities.

The Camino is not only nature, it is also history and culture. That’s why continuous restoration of monuments and maintenance of trails are carried out to keep them clean and accessible.

• Volunteer groups for waste collection.
• Environmental education programs for residents and pilgrims.

Sustainability plans also aim to boost rural economies by supporting small producers and local products.

• Local markets in village squares.
• Promotion of local crafts and traditional gastronomy.

At caminodesantiagoreservas.com we share some inspiring examples.

In Palencia, one of the stretches of the French Way, a plan has been implemented to install charging points for electric bicycles and expand pedestrian areas. In addition, streetlights have been replaced with LED lighting to reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency.

• Charging points in Carrión de los Condes and Frómista.
• Campaigns to reduce plastic consumption among pilgrims.

Ponferrada has strengthened its recycling container network and launched a program to collect and reuse backpacks and footwear abandoned by pilgrims, giving them a second life through local associations.

• Eco-stations at all entrances to the historic center.
• Environmental awareness workshops for students and pilgrims.

In the final city of the Camino, Santiago has launched a network of drinking water fountains to reduce the purchase of plastic bottles and modernized its waste collection system, with underground containers to keep the streets clean and organized.

• More than 20 new public fountains along the urban route.
• Volunteer cleaning campaigns in Monte do Gozo and surrounding areas.

Every small gesture counts to keep the Camino clean and healthy for everyone. By booking with caminodesantiagoreservas.com, you choose routes that are cared for and respectful of the environment, with all the services you need.

Live the Camino with ecological awareness!

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