The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Travel: Smart Choices for the Environment and Your Wallet

Travel

Travel is one of life’s greatest joys, offering opportunities to discover new cultures, immerse yourself in nature, and gain fresh perspectives. However, it can also result in significant environmental and social impacts. Sustainable travel, often referred to by terms like eco-tourism, green travel and responsible tourism focuses on making conscious choices that minimise your environmental impact while maximising benefits to local communities and ecosystems.
By planning your trips with care, you not only help protect the planet but also preserve the beauty and diversity of destinations for future generations. The best part? Travelling sustainably doesn’t have to be expensive. With smart planning and mindful decisions, you can reduce costs while creating richer, more meaningful travel experiences. Sustainable travel allows you to embrace thoughtful choices which not only create meaningful and unique experiences but can also help you save money along the way.
1. Choosing a destination and time to travel
Prioritise eco-friendly destinations
Image credit: LeoPatrizi via Canva Pro
Seek out destinations that allow you to prioritise sustainability, such as those with efficient public transport systems and strong eco-tourism practices. For instance, cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam, are known for their reliable public transport and extensive cycling infrastructure. Visitors can easily explore the city using eco-friendly options like buses, metro lines, or bicycles. Opting for destinations with efficient transport systems reduces your reliance on cars, helping lower your carbon footprint while supporting the local communities such as bike tours and rental shops. 
To complement your sustainable travel choices, go cashless with the DBS Travel Wallet. Whether you’re paying for bike rentals or enjoying local eco-friendly experiences, the DBS Visa Debit Card linked to your multi-currency account allows you to spend seamlessly in 11 currencies. With up to 5% cashback on overseas spending, instant currency exchange at competitive FX rates on the DBS digibank app, you can explore sustainably while ensuring convenience and great value.
Travel during off-peak seasons
Image credit: Sanga Park via Canva Pro
Visiting popular spots during off-peak seasons offers multiple benefits beyond just saving money on flights, accommodations, and attractions. It helps reduce the strain on local resources such as transportation systems, which are often overburdened during peak travel periods. For example, visiting Kyoto during early spring instead of peak cherry blossom season allows you to enjoy the serene beauty of the city without the overwhelming crowds. You’ll have a more immersive experience in iconic spots like the Kiyomizu-dera Temple with fewer tourists jostling for space. 
Seek out lesser-known gems
Image credit: sutiwat jutiamornloes via Canva Pro 
Instead of popular hotspots, you can also consider lesser-known locations and destination dupes that offer similar experiences without overwhelming crowds and inflated prices. This approach helps reduce the strain on overburdened tourist hubs while opening the door to unique, more authentic and affordable adventures. For instance, skip the overcrowded beaches of Bali and explore nearby islands like Nusa Penida or Flores. These destinations retain the charm of Indonesia’s tropical allure while offering quieter, crowd-free experiences. By stepping off the beaten path, you’ll enjoy hidden treasures while actively supporting communities that benefit from a more balanced flow of visitors.
2. Budgeting & planning for sustainable travel
Look out for eco-certifications
When selecting accommodation for your sustainable trip, it’s important to prioritise options that minimise their environmental impact. One of the best ways to do this is by looking for eco-certified establishments. For instance, eco-friendly hotels might implement energy-saving measures like solar panels or energy-efficient lighting, use water-saving fixtures, and follow waste management practices such as recycling or composting. 
Image credit: Morsa Images via Canva Pro
Apart from established eco-certified hotels, you can also consider more budget-friendly alternatives like hostels or homestays, which may not always have formal certifications but still practice sustainable habits. Listings on platforms like Airbnb often detail how they incorporate sustainable practices, some may focus on water and energy conservation, provide locally sourced food, or even offer cultural activities that support the local community.
To find these eco-friendly options and compare prices efficiently, consider using travel aggregators like the DBS Travel Marketplace. These platforms help you find the best deals on accommodations that suit your sustainable travel goals, giving you a wide range of choices from budget-friendly stays to more luxurious hotels, all in one place. 
Pack Light
Image credit: Vlada Karpovich via Canva Pro
Just like regular travel, setting a realistic budget is key to making sustainable travel work. Be sure to account for all the essential components of your trip, including flights, accommodations, food, activities, and transportation. Planning your expenses upfront helps ensure that you can enjoy a well-rounded experience without overspending. 
One often overlooked aspect of planning is the weight of your luggage. Packing light not only makes your trip more convenient but also helps reduce the environmental impact associated with transporting excess weight. It can also bring a host of practical benefits such as saving you the often hefty baggage fees that many airlines impose, especially for checked luggage.
Adopt Slow Travel
Image credit: VogelSP via Canva Pro
Slow travel focuses on immersing yourself in a destination rather than rushing through multiple locations. This approach not only allows you to save money but also reduces your carbon footprint, as slower modes of travel like trains emit significantly fewer greenhouse gases compared to flights. For instance, when exploring Europe, consider train journeys such as the iconic Glacier Express in Switzerland which offers a scenic journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz, winding through the Swiss Alps and providing passengers with stunning views that you simply cannot experience from the air. Train rides like these allow you to enjoy the journey itself, rather than just rushing to the next location. To make slow travel more affordable, one of the best strategies is to plan ahead and take advantage of rail passes. 
3. Planning your activities
Walkable itineraries
Image credit: galitskaya via Canva Pro
Where possible, planning your activities close to one another allows you to walk between destinations, reducing the need for taxis, buses, or other forms of transport. Walking through a city offers opportunities to discover hidden spots that you might not encounter when travelling by car or public transport. For example, when visiting places like Penang and Tokyo, walking between attractions gives you the chance to notice small details, like murals on alley walls, local cafés, and unique shops.
Embrace Free or Low-Cost Activities
Image credit: kamponwarit via Canva Pro
Some of the best travel experiences are the ones that don’t cost much, but still offer a deep connection to the place you’re visiting. Activities like hiking, visiting public parks, or relaxing by the beach are not only cost-effective but also allow you to immerse yourself in the country’s natural landscape for a richer cultural experience. 
Similarly, visiting public museums and local markets can provide a window into the culture and heritage of the community. Visiting a public museum offers a chance to learn about the region’s history and traditions while shopping at local markets helps support small vendors and artisans.
Dine Locally
Image credit: Gpoint Studio via Canva Pro
Eating at locally owned restaurants or trying street food supports small businesses and reduces the carbon footprint associated with imported goods. For example, in Vietnam, opt for pho at a family-run eatery rather than dining at international chains. By dining locally, you enjoy a more immersive and sustainable culinary experience while keeping your travel budget in check.
4. Choose to go cashless where possible
Opting for cashless payments not only offers convenience but is also a greener choice. The environmental cost of printing, transporting, and handling physical currency adds up, while digital transactions reduce the need for these processes. By choosing to go cashless, you play your part in lowering the carbon footprint associated with currency production.
One practical way to go cashless while travelling is by using the DBS Travel Wallet. Simply link your DBS Visa Debit Card to your multi-currency account (MyAccount or Multiplier Account) as the primary debiting account to access the 11 different currencies with zero foreign exchange conversion fees. 
Just remember to keep sufficient foreign currency in the respective currency pockets for your spending amounts to be debited. This allows you to make seamless, eco-friendly payments in different countries without the need for exchanging cash or carrying large sums of money. It’s a sustainable choice that also offers safety, convenience, and competitive exchange rates for your travels.
Choosing this also gives you greater card security, as you can set spending limits and selectively enable card transaction functions while you are overseas, all with a few simple taps on your digibank app. 
5. Give back to the community
Shop Ethically
Image credit: IRYNA KURILOVYCH via Canva Pro
Buying handmade souvenirs directly from local artisans, rather than opting for mass-produced goods ensures that your money goes back into the community. For example, in Peru, purchasing alpaca wool scarves from indigenous weavers helps support traditional craftsmanship and sustains local economies. These unique, often ethically sourced items also make for meaningful mementoes of your trip.
Hire Local Guides
Image credit: Oliver Wu via Canva Pro
Instead of booking commercial tours, opt for small, locally run operators that offer city or hiking tours. In Taiwan, for example, you can explore the island’s natural beauty through guided hikes in Taroko Gorge or take a walking tour of Taipei’s vibrant night markets. These local tours provide more personalised and authentic experiences, allowing you to immerse yourself in the culture and landscape. By choosing these tours, you support local guides and small businesses, directly contributing to the local economy and fostering sustainable tourism practices.
Support local initiatives and charities
Image credit: SL_Photography via Canva Pro
Look for ways to contribute to community-driven projects or local charities, such as environmental preservation efforts or social initiatives. For example, in places like Costa Rica, you can support animal and sea turtle conservation programs by participating as a volunteer or donating to local nature reserves. Not only do these initiatives allow you to make a positive impact during your travels, but also experience the country and culture in a truly personal and unforgettable manner as you interact with the locals. This ensures that your visit leaves a lasting benefit for the people and places you encounter.
6. Reduce waste and go green
Pack reusables
Image credit: Neustockimages via Canva Pro
Carry reusable water bottles, utensils, and shopping bags to minimise single-use plastics during your trip. Many countries now have refill stations or filtered water sources. For example, Japan has numerous stations for refilling water bottles, making it easy to reduce plastic waste. The MYMIZU app is a great tool for finding these water stations and supporting a sustainable, waste-free trip.
Embrace digital tickets and paperless travel
Image credit: Sitthiphong via Canva Pro
Whenever possible, opt for digital tickets and paperless travel options to reduce paper waste. Many transport systems and attractions now offer mobile or electronic tickets, eliminating the need for printed passes. Attractions in cities like Singapore or Barcelona allow visitors to store their tickets on smartphones, which helps reduce the use of paper and the environmental impact associated with physical tickets. When doing this, remember to make sure these documents are made available offline so that you can still access them in the event your phone loses connectivity. 
7. Safeguard your trip with insurance
Sustainable travel often includes outdoor activities or visits to remote locations, which can come with their own set of risks. Comprehensive travel insurance, such as TravellerShield Plus provides essential protection against unexpected events like trip cancellations, lost baggage, or medical emergencies. With the peace of mind that your journey is covered, you can fully embrace your eco-friendly adventures and enjoy a stress-free experience for both you and your family.
The overlap between smart budgeting and sustainability is a powerful reminder that we can travel in a way that enriches both our lives and the planet. Ultimately, if we don’t take care of the world today, future generations may find fewer destinations to explore — so it’s essential to travel with purpose and leave a positive legacy for those who come after us.

Brought to you by DBS

The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Travel: Smart Choices for the Environment and Your Wallet

Travel

Travel is one of life’s greatest joys, offering opportunities to discover new cultures, immerse yourself in nature, and gain fresh perspectives. However, it can also result in significant environmental and social impacts. Sustainable travel, often referred to by terms like eco-tourism, green travel and responsible tourism focuses on making conscious choices that minimise your environmental impact while maximising benefits to local communities and ecosystems.
By planning your trips with care, you not only help protect the planet but also preserve the beauty and diversity of destinations for future generations. The best part? Travelling sustainably doesn’t have to be expensive. With smart planning and mindful decisions, you can reduce costs while creating richer, more meaningful travel experiences. Sustainable travel allows you to embrace thoughtful choices which not only create meaningful and unique experiences but can also help you save money along the way.
1. Choosing a destination and time to travel
Prioritise eco-friendly destinations
Image credit: LeoPatrizi via Canva Pro
Seek out destinations that allow you to prioritise sustainability, such as those with efficient public transport systems and strong eco-tourism practices. For instance, cities like Copenhagen and Amsterdam, are known for their reliable public transport and extensive cycling infrastructure. Visitors can easily explore the city using eco-friendly options like buses, metro lines, or bicycles. Opting for destinations with efficient transport systems reduces your reliance on cars, helping lower your carbon footprint while supporting the local communities such as bike tours and rental shops. 
To complement your sustainable travel choices, go cashless with the DBS Travel Wallet. Whether you’re paying for bike rentals or enjoying local eco-friendly experiences, the DBS Visa Debit Card linked to your multi-currency account allows you to spend seamlessly in 11 currencies. With up to 5% cashback on overseas spending, instant currency exchange at competitive FX rates on the DBS digibank app, you can explore sustainably while ensuring convenience and great value.
Travel during off-peak seasons
Image credit: Sanga Park via Canva Pro
Visiting popular spots during off-peak seasons offers multiple benefits beyond just saving money on flights, accommodations, and attractions. It helps reduce the strain on local resources such as transportation systems, which are often overburdened during peak travel periods. For example, visiting Kyoto during early spring instead of peak cherry blossom season allows you to enjoy the serene beauty of the city without the overwhelming crowds. You’ll have a more immersive experience in iconic spots like the Kiyomizu-dera Temple with fewer tourists jostling for space. 
Seek out lesser-known gems
Image credit: sutiwat jutiamornloes via Canva Pro 
Instead of popular hotspots, you can also consider lesser-known locations and destination dupes that offer similar experiences without overwhelming crowds and inflated prices. This approach helps reduce the strain on overburdened tourist hubs while opening the door to unique, more authentic and affordable adventures. For instance, skip the overcrowded beaches of Bali and explore nearby islands like Nusa Penida or Flores. These destinations retain the charm of Indonesia’s tropical allure while offering quieter, crowd-free experiences. By stepping off the beaten path, you’ll enjoy hidden treasures while actively supporting communities that benefit from a more balanced flow of visitors.
2. Budgeting & planning for sustainable travel
Look out for eco-certifications
When selecting accommodation for your sustainable trip, it’s important to prioritise options that minimise their environmental impact. One of the best ways to do this is by looking for eco-certified establishments. For instance, eco-friendly hotels might implement energy-saving measures like solar panels or energy-efficient lighting, use water-saving fixtures, and follow waste management practices such as recycling or composting. 
Image credit: Morsa Images via Canva Pro
Apart from established eco-certified hotels, you can also consider more budget-friendly alternatives like hostels or homestays, which may not always have formal certifications but still practice sustainable habits. Listings on platforms like Airbnb often detail how they incorporate sustainable practices, some may focus on water and energy conservation, provide locally sourced food, or even offer cultural activities that support the local community.
To find these eco-friendly options and compare prices efficiently, consider using travel aggregators like the DBS Travel Marketplace. These platforms help you find the best deals on accommodations that suit your sustainable travel goals, giving you a wide range of choices from budget-friendly stays to more luxurious hotels, all in one place. 
Pack Light
Image credit: Vlada Karpovich via Canva Pro
Just like regular travel, setting a realistic budget is key to making sustainable travel work. Be sure to account for all the essential components of your trip, including flights, accommodations, food, activities, and transportation. Planning your expenses upfront helps ensure that you can enjoy a well-rounded experience without overspending. 
One often overlooked aspect of planning is the weight of your luggage. Packing light not only makes your trip more convenient but also helps reduce the environmental impact associated with transporting excess weight. It can also bring a host of practical benefits such as saving you the often hefty baggage fees that many airlines impose, especially for checked luggage.
Adopt Slow Travel
Image credit: VogelSP via Canva Pro
Slow travel focuses on immersing yourself in a destination rather than rushing through multiple locations. This approach not only allows you to save money but also reduces your carbon footprint, as slower modes of travel like trains emit significantly fewer greenhouse gases compared to flights. For instance, when exploring Europe, consider train journeys such as the iconic Glacier Express in Switzerland which offers a scenic journey from Zermatt to St. Moritz, winding through the Swiss Alps and providing passengers with stunning views that you simply cannot experience from the air. Train rides like these allow you to enjoy the journey itself, rather than just rushing to the next location. To make slow travel more affordable, one of the best strategies is to plan ahead and take advantage of rail passes. 
3. Planning your activities
Walkable itineraries
Image credit: galitskaya via Canva Pro
Where possible, planning your activities close to one another allows you to walk between destinations, reducing the need for taxis, buses, or other forms of transport. Walking through a city offers opportunities to discover hidden spots that you might not encounter when travelling by car or public transport. For example, when visiting places like Penang and Tokyo, walking between attractions gives you the chance to notice small details, like murals on alley walls, local cafés, and unique shops.
Embrace Free or Low-Cost Activities
Image credit: kamponwarit via Canva Pro
Some of the best travel experiences are the ones that don’t cost much, but still offer a deep connection to the place you’re visiting. Activities like hiking, visiting public parks, or relaxing by the beach are not only cost-effective but also allow you to immerse yourself in the country’s natural landscape for a richer cultural experience. 
Similarly, visiting public museums and local markets can provide a window into the culture and heritage of the community. Visiting a public museum offers a chance to learn about the region’s history and traditions while shopping at local markets helps support small vendors and artisans.
Dine Locally
Image credit: Gpoint Studio via Canva Pro
Eating at locally owned restaurants or trying street food supports small businesses and reduces the carbon footprint associated with imported goods. For example, in Vietnam, opt for pho at a family-run eatery rather than dining at international chains. By dining locally, you enjoy a more immersive and sustainable culinary experience while keeping your travel budget in check.
4. Choose to go cashless where possible
Opting for cashless payments not only offers convenience but is also a greener choice. The environmental cost of printing, transporting, and handling physical currency adds up, while digital transactions reduce the need for these processes. By choosing to go cashless, you play your part in lowering the carbon footprint associated with currency production.
One practical way to go cashless while travelling is by using the DBS Travel Wallet. Simply link your DBS Visa Debit Card to your multi-currency account (MyAccount or Multiplier Account) as the primary debiting account to access the 11 different currencies with zero foreign exchange conversion fees. 
Just remember to keep sufficient foreign currency in the respective currency pockets for your spending amounts to be debited. This allows you to make seamless, eco-friendly payments in different countries without the need for exchanging cash or carrying large sums of money. It’s a sustainable choice that also offers safety, convenience, and competitive exchange rates for your travels.
Choosing this also gives you greater card security, as you can set spending limits and selectively enable card transaction functions while you are overseas, all with a few simple taps on your digibank app. 
5. Give back to the community
Shop Ethically
Image credit: IRYNA KURILOVYCH via Canva Pro
Buying handmade souvenirs directly from local artisans, rather than opting for mass-produced goods ensures that your money goes back into the community. For example, in Peru, purchasing alpaca wool scarves from indigenous weavers helps support traditional craftsmanship and sustains local economies. These unique, often ethically sourced items also make for meaningful mementoes of your trip.
Hire Local Guides
Image credit: Oliver Wu via Canva Pro
Instead of booking commercial tours, opt for small, locally run operators that offer city or hiking tours. In Taiwan, for example, you can explore the island’s natural beauty through guided hikes in Taroko Gorge or take a walking tour of Taipei’s vibrant night markets. These local tours provide more personalised and authentic experiences, allowing you to immerse yourself in the culture and landscape. By choosing these tours, you support local guides and small businesses, directly contributing to the local economy and fostering sustainable tourism practices.
Support local initiatives and charities
Image credit: SL_Photography via Canva Pro
Look for ways to contribute to community-driven projects or local charities, such as environmental preservation efforts or social initiatives. For example, in places like Costa Rica, you can support animal and sea turtle conservation programs by participating as a volunteer or donating to local nature reserves. Not only do these initiatives allow you to make a positive impact during your travels, but also experience the country and culture in a truly personal and unforgettable manner as you interact with the locals. This ensures that your visit leaves a lasting benefit for the people and places you encounter.
6. Reduce waste and go green
Pack reusables
Image credit: Neustockimages via Canva Pro
Carry reusable water bottles, utensils, and shopping bags to minimise single-use plastics during your trip. Many countries now have refill stations or filtered water sources. For example, Japan has numerous stations for refilling water bottles, making it easy to reduce plastic waste. The MYMIZU app is a great tool for finding these water stations and supporting a sustainable, waste-free trip.
Embrace digital tickets and paperless travel
Image credit: Sitthiphong via Canva Pro
Whenever possible, opt for digital tickets and paperless travel options to reduce paper waste. Many transport systems and attractions now offer mobile or electronic tickets, eliminating the need for printed passes. Attractions in cities like Singapore or Barcelona allow visitors to store their tickets on smartphones, which helps reduce the use of paper and the environmental impact associated with physical tickets. When doing this, remember to make sure these documents are made available offline so that you can still access them in the event your phone loses connectivity. 
7. Safeguard your trip with insurance
Sustainable travel often includes outdoor activities or visits to remote locations, which can come with their own set of risks. Comprehensive travel insurance, such as TravellerShield Plus provides essential protection against unexpected events like trip cancellations, lost baggage, or medical emergencies. With the peace of mind that your journey is covered, you can fully embrace your eco-friendly adventures and enjoy a stress-free experience for both you and your family.
The overlap between smart budgeting and sustainability is a powerful reminder that we can travel in a way that enriches both our lives and the planet. Ultimately, if we don’t take care of the world today, future generations may find fewer destinations to explore — so it’s essential to travel with purpose and leave a positive legacy for those who come after us.

Brought to you by DBS

Ethiopian earthquakes and volcanic eruptions: earth scientist explains the link

Science and Health

Ethiopia’s Afar and Oromia regions have been hit by several earthquakes and tremors since the beginning of 2025. The strongest, with a magnitude of 5.7, struck on 4 January. The US Geological Survey and the German Research Centre for Geosciences reported that its epicentre was 142km east of the capital, Addis Ababa, which is in the Oromia region. It came just a day after a quake with a magnitude of 5.5 hit the same area. Two more quakes were reported over the weekend of 11 January.

The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Council is relocating around 60,000 residents in the two regions to temporary shelters because of the risk of further earthquakes.

The earthquakes have also sparked fears of volcanic eruptions because they are happening near two active volcanoes, Fentale and Dofen. The Conversation Africa asked volcano researcher Amdemichael Tadesse to explain what’s happening below the earth’s surface.

How common is it for quakes in Ethiopia to trigger volcanic eruptions?

Earthquakes and volcanic activity are both common in Ethiopia. The country is located in a geologically active region, the East African Rift System. But it’s rare for earthquakes to directly trigger volcanic eruptions in Ethiopia.

The current episode of earthquake activity is being caused by magmatic activity in Oromia and Afar region. Magma (molten rock) is intruding into the subsurface beneath two volcanoes, Fentale and Dofen, which are geographically close to each other.

Read more:
Tracking the hazards — and benefits — of volcanoes in East Africa

Ethiopia has around 50 active volcanoes. Most are in the Ethiopian Rift, the northern segment of the East African Rift System. An active volcano has magma stored deep within its crust that could potentially erupt in the future. There’s evidence of past eruptions at many of these active volcanoes. Some date back hundreds of years. In contrast, a dormant volcano has not erupted for thousands of years and shows no immediate signs of reactivation or imminent eruption.

Why have the earthquakes sparked fears of volcanic eruptions?

Volcanoes and earthquakes are both natural phenomena driven by the dynamic processes that shape Earth’s interior and surface.

The outermost layer of Earth, the lithosphere, is composed of solid rock and is broken into large sections called tectonic plates. These plates fit together like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. They move slowly on the more fluid layer beneath them, the asthenosphere. Convection currents in Earth’s mantle drive the movement of tectonic plates.

Tectonic plates interact at their boundaries in three primary ways: they move apart, collide, or slide past one another. These interactions produce geological activity, including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Most volcanoes and earthquakes occur along these plate boundaries, where the stress and movement of the plates cause the lithosphere to fracture.

A satellite view of Fentale Volcano, a dormant volcano located in Oromia, Ethiopia near Lake Basaka, which has recently experienced minor earthquakes.
Gallo Images/Orbital Horizon/Copernicus Sentinel Data 2025

Many processes associated with volcanoes can generate earthquakes. This makes seismic (earth-shaking) activity a common feature of volcanic regions. Unlike pure tectonic earthquakes, seismicity at volcanoes often occurs in swarms. They can take place over periods of days to months or even years. These volcano-related earthquakes are often caused by ground fracturing and the displacement of rock due to the movement of magma beneath the surface. Magma rising from deep within Earth puts pressure on the surrounding rocks. That causes them to crack and release seismic waves. It’s this process that’s currently being observed in the Fentale-Dofen region – magmatic activity is generating sustained seismic activity.

What can be done to mitigate the risks of volcanic eruptions now and in future?

Volcanic eruptions and earthquakes pose risks to human lives, infrastructure and the environment.

These events cannot be prevented. But their effects can be mitigated by planning and acting ahead of time.

Monitoring and early warning systems are critical. The current magma intrusion I’ve described is being tracked by satellite remote sensing observations and seismic data from Ethiopia’s national and international seismic networks. The instruments being used help to detect changes in seismic activity, and ground deformation, which often come before volcanic eruptions.

This data, as well as evidence gathered by studying past earthquake and volcanic events (from either historical records or geological records) can help scientists to understand how often they occur, and at what kind of magnitudes and sizes.

Detailed maps that identify areas at risk are essential. These maps guide urban planning, infrastructure development and evacuation strategies. Identifying critical infrastructure, such as hospitals, schools and water supplies, in high-risk zones makes it possible to prepare.

It is also crucial to establish efficient and trustworthy communication between scientists involved in managing the crisis, the authorities making decisions, and the general public.

Early warnings and clear communication protocols must be established to get information quickly to affected populations. Alerts can be delivered through different means like mobile apps, SMS, radio and public announcements. In Ethiopia, mainstream media and public announcements have been used in the past to convey critical information. Using modern technologies like mobile platforms and localised SMS-based systems could make the crisis communication even more efficient.

Read more:
Africa is splitting in two – here is why

Community preparedness and education are important, too. Regular training and drills help individuals, schools and workplaces prepare for volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. In Ethiopia, the Disaster Risk Management Commission is supposed to operate preparedness systems across the country, but more can be learnt from global best practices. Japan, for instance, has developed a robust disaster preparedness culture that has reduced the impacts of natural hazards. This includes routine drills, widespread education programmes, and active community engagement.

Educating communities about the signs of volcanic activity, evacuation routes and emergency protocols empowers them to act quickly and appropriately.

Governments and aid organisations should maintain reserves of emergency supplies, such as food, water, medical kits and shelter materials, to meet the immediate needs of people affected by natural disasters.

Specialised response teams with expertise in volcanology, seismology and disaster management can take swift and coordinated action during emergencies.

This is by no means an exhaustive list. Stronger infrastructure and better long-term planning for land use are also key. Taking these measures can greatly reduce the harm that volcanic eruptions and earthquake-related activities can cause.

Ethiopian earthquakes and volcanic eruptions: earth scientist explains the link

Science and Health

Ethiopia’s Afar and Oromia regions have been hit by several earthquakes and tremors since the beginning of 2025. The strongest, with a magnitude of 5.7, struck on 4 January. The US Geological Survey and the German Research Centre for Geosciences reported that its epicentre was 142km east of the capital, Addis Ababa, which is in the Oromia region. It came just a day after a quake with a magnitude of 5.5 hit the same area. Two more quakes were reported over the weekend of 11 January.

The Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Council is relocating around 60,000 residents in the two regions to temporary shelters because of the risk of further earthquakes.

The earthquakes have also sparked fears of volcanic eruptions because they are happening near two active volcanoes, Fentale and Dofen. The Conversation Africa asked volcano researcher Amdemichael Tadesse to explain what’s happening below the earth’s surface.

How common is it for quakes in Ethiopia to trigger volcanic eruptions?

Earthquakes and volcanic activity are both common in Ethiopia. The country is located in a geologically active region, the East African Rift System. But it’s rare for earthquakes to directly trigger volcanic eruptions in Ethiopia.

The current episode of earthquake activity is being caused by magmatic activity in Oromia and Afar region. Magma (molten rock) is intruding into the subsurface beneath two volcanoes, Fentale and Dofen, which are geographically close to each other.

Read more:
Tracking the hazards — and benefits — of volcanoes in East Africa

Ethiopia has around 50 active volcanoes. Most are in the Ethiopian Rift, the northern segment of the East African Rift System. An active volcano has magma stored deep within its crust that could potentially erupt in the future. There’s evidence of past eruptions at many of these active volcanoes. Some date back hundreds of years. In contrast, a dormant volcano has not erupted for thousands of years and shows no immediate signs of reactivation or imminent eruption.

Why have the earthquakes sparked fears of volcanic eruptions?

Volcanoes and earthquakes are both natural phenomena driven by the dynamic processes that shape Earth’s interior and surface.

The outermost layer of Earth, the lithosphere, is composed of solid rock and is broken into large sections called tectonic plates. These plates fit together like pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. They move slowly on the more fluid layer beneath them, the asthenosphere. Convection currents in Earth’s mantle drive the movement of tectonic plates.

Tectonic plates interact at their boundaries in three primary ways: they move apart, collide, or slide past one another. These interactions produce geological activity, including earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. Most volcanoes and earthquakes occur along these plate boundaries, where the stress and movement of the plates cause the lithosphere to fracture.

A satellite view of Fentale Volcano, a dormant volcano located in Oromia, Ethiopia near Lake Basaka, which has recently experienced minor earthquakes.
Gallo Images/Orbital Horizon/Copernicus Sentinel Data 2025

Many processes associated with volcanoes can generate earthquakes. This makes seismic (earth-shaking) activity a common feature of volcanic regions. Unlike pure tectonic earthquakes, seismicity at volcanoes often occurs in swarms. They can take place over periods of days to months or even years. These volcano-related earthquakes are often caused by ground fracturing and the displacement of rock due to the movement of magma beneath the surface. Magma rising from deep within Earth puts pressure on the surrounding rocks. That causes them to crack and release seismic waves. It’s this process that’s currently being observed in the Fentale-Dofen region – magmatic activity is generating sustained seismic activity.

What can be done to mitigate the risks of volcanic eruptions now and in future?

Volcanic eruptions and earthquakes pose risks to human lives, infrastructure and the environment.

These events cannot be prevented. But their effects can be mitigated by planning and acting ahead of time.

Monitoring and early warning systems are critical. The current magma intrusion I’ve described is being tracked by satellite remote sensing observations and seismic data from Ethiopia’s national and international seismic networks. The instruments being used help to detect changes in seismic activity, and ground deformation, which often come before volcanic eruptions.

This data, as well as evidence gathered by studying past earthquake and volcanic events (from either historical records or geological records) can help scientists to understand how often they occur, and at what kind of magnitudes and sizes.

Detailed maps that identify areas at risk are essential. These maps guide urban planning, infrastructure development and evacuation strategies. Identifying critical infrastructure, such as hospitals, schools and water supplies, in high-risk zones makes it possible to prepare.

It is also crucial to establish efficient and trustworthy communication between scientists involved in managing the crisis, the authorities making decisions, and the general public.

Early warnings and clear communication protocols must be established to get information quickly to affected populations. Alerts can be delivered through different means like mobile apps, SMS, radio and public announcements. In Ethiopia, mainstream media and public announcements have been used in the past to convey critical information. Using modern technologies like mobile platforms and localised SMS-based systems could make the crisis communication even more efficient.

Read more:
Africa is splitting in two – here is why

Community preparedness and education are important, too. Regular training and drills help individuals, schools and workplaces prepare for volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. In Ethiopia, the Disaster Risk Management Commission is supposed to operate preparedness systems across the country, but more can be learnt from global best practices. Japan, for instance, has developed a robust disaster preparedness culture that has reduced the impacts of natural hazards. This includes routine drills, widespread education programmes, and active community engagement.

Educating communities about the signs of volcanic activity, evacuation routes and emergency protocols empowers them to act quickly and appropriately.

Governments and aid organisations should maintain reserves of emergency supplies, such as food, water, medical kits and shelter materials, to meet the immediate needs of people affected by natural disasters.

Specialised response teams with expertise in volcanology, seismology and disaster management can take swift and coordinated action during emergencies.

This is by no means an exhaustive list. Stronger infrastructure and better long-term planning for land use are also key. Taking these measures can greatly reduce the harm that volcanic eruptions and earthquake-related activities can cause.

Sandhya Parippukaran’s delectable picture books

Arts & Culture, Books

Reading Time: 4 minutesSandhya Parippukaran can’t remember a time in her life where she didn’t love going to the library.
“That’s what we did back when I was little,” she reminisces. “There were no screens or anything, so you had to occupy yourself somehow – for me it was reading. I just love losing myself in the story, I would read anything! I liked dinosaurs and space and trees, and I liked all those fact books, but I also loved [fiction] stories.”
“I’m from a single income family, so buying books was out of the question. There were free events at the library too – I think I watched my first movie there. It’s always been a very welcoming and safe space; once you start going to the library you realise how much they have on offer there.”
These days, the children’s books she has penned take pride of place on the shelves of many libraries across the country, and equally on the honour rolls of numerous state literary awards, including the NSW Premier’s Literary Awards 2024 for her book Stay For Dinner.
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“It’s been quite a lovely surprise, and it’s a lovely recognition as well,” Parippukaran says on receiving the award. “The recognition means that it goes to more readers’ hands. That’s a lovely consequence, because more people know about the book. It’s also a nod to the team as well.”
Though a lifelong reader, Sandhya Parippukaran came to writing just five years ago as a change of pace from her Food Technology job.
“One day my son and I were reading on the couch and I just thought, ‘What if I wrote one of these?’ The idea just popped into my head. My son was in Year 1 at the time, and I asked him ‘do you think I can write a book’? He goes, ‘you write the stories, and I’ll draw the pictures!’ That was my cue to give this a go,” she recounts.
A proud Malayali-Australian, Parippukaran followed the classic advice for first-time writers and wrote what she knew, resulting in poignant and uplifting stories like Amma’s Sari and The Boy Who Tried to Shrink His Name which elegantly impart themes of cultural identity and acceptance.
“The experiences from my life just started flowing onto the page. It wasn’t something that I thought I would do, but it just happened sort of organically, and I was able to put that into a child’s perspective and make it work for a picture book. If you put all my stories together, it would almost be like a memoir for me,” she reflects.
Sandhya Parippukaran’s books are used as tools to teach acceptance in schools. (Source: Supplied)
It takes one year for her to complete a book, a meticulous process involving lots of redrafting to achieve the tricky balance of sparking both conversation and joy in young readers.
“What we all love about a story is being in a setting and being with the character and just going through an adventure with that character … I focus on that and hope that all the other things will just fall into place around it,” Parippukaran says of her process. 
Of course, it’s something she manages with aplomb, her stories chosen to be read on Play School and as the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s ‘Children’s Book of the Year’ in 2022.
“Books are a great way to build empathy – I’ve had feedback from parents and teachers for all my books, but especially with The Boy Who Tried To Shrink His Name which is about respecting people’s names and learning how to say them correctly. ‘Ever since we read your book, the children are more mindful about pronouncing names,’ I’ve been told, or children have been more empowered to tell the teacher how to say their names,’” Parippukaran says. 
Inspired by the strawberry cake fuelled adventures from childhood heroes like Enid Blyton, her latest book Stay For Dinner celebrates the diverse palates of multicultural Australia, protagonist Reshma learning to overcome her reservations about her friends seeing her family eat with their hands when she discovers the myriad ways families share meals. 
Sandhya Parippukaran’s latest book, ‘Stay For Dinner’ (Source: Supplied)
“When you add food to children’s books, it makes a strong connection [sic]. I wrote Stay For Dinner because I hadn’t seen a children’s book which featured the way my family eat dinner – with our right hand,” Parippukaran says.
“Every single one of my books has food in it and I think it just comes naturally. A lot of people say ‘Are you a great cook? Because you write so much about food.’ I’m not a good cook! I guess it’s part of my story, so when I write the food comes.”
With gorgeous illustrations from Indian-Australian artist Michelle Perera, it’s a sumptuous story which has seen a voracious take-up from readers.As for what’s on the dinner table at this Malayali-Australian author’s house, “At least once a day we eat a Kerala meal; there’ll be Matta rice, either a green mango curry or Thrissur fish curry, some sort of vegetable – we call it upperi – some pickle, and some yogurt. You’ll get something like that.”
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