The holidays are here again! Whether it’s to visit family and friends or just for vacation, the holidays are also a popular time to travel. Of course, most of us will travel by air if going long distances, which will emit large amounts of CO2. So, here are 10 ways to lower your carbon footprint while travelling.
Travel less, stay longer
The biggest emitter during any trip will almost certainly be from flying to and from your destination, so it makes sense to travel less frequently to cut down on emissions. Instead, opt for longer trips to get the most out of your flight. It also gives you a chance to explore more places!
Consider your destinations
While it may be tempting to visit all the “hot hit” locations that are all over social media, why not consider visiting lesser-known locations? Just because a location isn’t very popular doesn’t mean it isn’t as good as the popular ones; in fact, they might be even better! The Sustainable Travel International blog provides a good example:
You’ll also be doing the environment a favour by helping to alleviate overcrowding and the huge pressure for resources that comes with it.
Pack reusable bags
Make sure to add reusable bags to your packing list, because these could also come in handy at the most unexpected times! This will help you avoid bringing single-use plastic bags home with you. Or, if you forget to bring your own bags, you can re-use the ones that you acquire during the first few days of your trip.
Choose your transportation
Consider what modes of transport are available where you are staying and choose the greenest options. If you’re not going far, consider walking or renting a bike - this is also the best way to experience the local scenery while getting in some exercise. Alternatively, see if you can take a skytrain. Cities like Tokyo and Taipei have very extensive skytrain lines that can take you directly (or very close) to where you want to go.
Choose green accommodation
If possible, look for eco-friendly hotels or home-stays. Whether it’s using renewable energy, grey water, recycled materials or nature restoration programs in place, every little thing counts!
Save energy when you can
The same rules apply whether you’re at home or travelling. When leaving your hotel room, make sure you switch off as many appliances as possible. Take shorter showers and switch off the tap when brushing your teeth. Lowering your energy consumption will help lower your carbon emissions.
Pick up after yourself
It goes without saying that littering is terrible for the environment, especially plastic. It could be useful to carry a small trash bag with you.
Consider what you’re buying
Vacations always come with at least a little bit of shopping. If you’re unsure about purchasing a particular item, ask yourself if you’ll actually use it or if it will be worth the investment. You’ll be saving yourself some money and all the energy and water that went into making that product, too.
Leave the local wildlife alone
Avoid feeding or petting the local wildlife - they are wild animals and shouldn’t rely on humans for food. Human interference could upset the natural balance of the local ecosystem.
Get involved!
See what eco-friendly initiatives you can get involved in, whether it’s collecting garbage, planting trees or even making your own reusable bag from recycled materials. You can also consider offsetting your emissions by donating to carbon offsetting programs if you’re unable to get involved in person.
Depending on where you are travelling to, there will be different eco-friendly things you can do. Sometimes, even the littlest things can go a long way in helping the environment. Happy travelling!
We’ve been writing informative articles for over a year now - next year, look out for more diverse content on the ECS magazine, including a new original short story series!
Credits:
Image - NettZero
Information - Sustainable Travel International, Voyage Green
Comments