If you’re planning a trip and want to get there in the most eco-friendly way, there are ways to do that. And once you get to your destination, you can ensure that any traveling you do is eco-friendly as well. You just need to do a little planning in advance to find the most eco-friendly travel options.
1. Getting There
Planes, trains, and automobiles… Of these, planes are the worst, but if you fly on an airline that has taken measures to reduce their carbon footprint by eliminating excess waste and recycling as much as possible, it will be better. Southwest is an airline you might want to consider which has done a lot to reduce their carbon footprint.
When it comes to trains, this really isn’t a bad way to travel and it’s not terrible on the environment. Plus it’s a very scenic way to travel. If you are making a road trip and are driving, then consider renting a hybrid vehicle if you don’t own one.
Look for hotels that use green programs. Also check the hotel’s location and make sure there is plenty of public transportation nearby that you can use to get to where you need to go. Once in your hotel, notify them that you don’t need new towels every day. Turn lights off when you leave the room and turn the thermostat up or down when you’re not in the room to use less electricity.
3. Travel When You’re There
Even though you checked your hotel to see that it has public transportation, also consider finding other ways to travel. Can you walk to many places instead of needing to be driven there? How about renting a bicycle for the week and traveling by bike instead? Finding alternative ways to get to destinations and then using nature as much as possible will really help you maintain your eco-friendly transportation while on your vacation.
4. Leave It Cleaner Than When You Got There
While this isn’t about transportation, it’s always just good practice to pick up trash when you see it. It can help balance out your carbon footprint if you had trouble finding the most eco-friendly ways of transport.
Support local efforts at eco-friendly by making donations or even volunteering some time while you’re there. Also shop at local farms while you’re there instead of the grocery store. You’ll get to try out local produce. You might need to be careful with what you do if you’re out of the country, though. Check with your hotel to see what local produce shops you can go to; they should be able to point you in the right direction.
Staycations are also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint by exploring things right in your own area and being in nature. Travel definitely takes its toll on the environment, but if you do choose to go away, you can still reduce your carbon footprint when you travel.