The world is full of so many miracles of natures, sites with history, and distant locales with simply delicious food. It’s no surprise that many succumb to the travel bug. Yet an appreciation of the world also comes with the need to take care of our planet, which is why many people are focusing now on their eco-footprint when venturing afar. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to help make an impact after the coronavirus. Likewise, click here to work on yourself in the meantime.
Our article describes ways to travel more ecologically friendly by being mindful of your transportation mode, switching to alternative power, reducing waste and carbon footprints, and choosing reputable and green-friendly travel providers.
Sail the Ocean Like Greta
This option may be more in line with some of our recent lotto winners, but it’s absolutely worth a mention. Environmental activist Greta Thunberg chose to cross the Atlantic ocean in an emission-free catamaran instead of flying by plane or other high-emission travel. While there probably aren’t too many catamaran’s and captains available, it’s still a great idea to remember that travel and vacation by wind power are an eco-friendly option.
Replica Russian Viking boat
Go Electric for Roadtrips
Electric cars of old meant short trips, low power, and frequent plug-ins. But times have changed. Modern electric cars are packed with horsepower and have a lengthy battery life, making them fantastic cars for road trips. In fact, CNN notes that by 2040, more than half of new cars will be electric. Reduce your reliance on fossil fuels while you take in the scenery. Electric cars reduce noise pollution too.
Pack Light when Flying
If you must fly, reducing the weight you bring is a simple consideration that can help save in long-term greenhouse gas contributions. The more a plane weighs, the more carbon emissions it produces. In addition to helping cut down on air pollution, you’ll also eliminate the risk of excess baggage fees or getting your bag rerouted.
Another friendly flying tip is to book non-stop flights when possible. Take-offs and landings are where the most fuel is wasted, so choose your flight path wisely.
Bring Your Own
When it comes to food and drink, you need to be strategic. You can’t bring a bottle of water through airport security, but you can bring an empty, reusable bottle. Simply fill this at a drinking fountain after you pass through the scanners and avoid plastic bottle waste as well as bottled water company ethics. On the other side of security choose food served with compostable plates or cutlery if possible. If you’re unsure of the food options coming up, pack some items that provide their own packagings – like a banana, apple, or avocado.
When you do eat and drink out on vacation, try to eat and drink local. Local foods create a lower carbon imprint since they don’t need to be transported as far. In addition, there is less difficulty in getting these foods to market, so they will taste fresher and require fewer chemicals and additives. If you’re shopping at a farmers market or just for souvenirs, bring your own reusable bag with you on vacation.
Check Your Hotel’s Reputation
Many hotels now are embracing green measures. Check to see if your hotel meets architectural LEED standards, or otherwise uses upcycled or recycled building materials. Look to see if they are associated with any environmentally supportive organizations, such as the Nature Conservancy, World Wildlife Fund, or any of the local and national sustainability initiatives in their area. Look for the simple things, like if the hotel embraces smart laundry – avoiding fresh daily towels or linens without reason. Do they use single-serve shampoos, or offer bulk dispensers to reduce plastic waste. Last, see if your hotel participates in additional carbon offset measures, and volunteer to support these initiatives if possible.
Travelling is good for the soul, but it’s time to make your travel good for the planet too. Choose your method of transportation wisely, traveling by ground or sea if you can. If you are limited by time or terrain and choose to fly in the smartest way possible, by reducing weight and excess plastic packaging. Select non-stop flights and shop smartly while you are away. Stay at green-friendly hotels and review their impact during your bookings. Every step counts when concerning the health of our planet. Your small choices can lead to big results long-term if you keep these eco-tips in mind.