Green Travel
It’s not always easy to travel with minimal environmental impact, but there are things you can do to make your trips a little greener. Here are a few suggestions to help you along…When you’re booking flights… look for airlines that recycle waste from food and beverages. Amazingly – they don’t all do this yet. And it drives me crazy when I see the flight attendants tossing pop cans, water bottles, garbage and leftovers into the same bin.
Consider alternative transportation such as car, bus or train to cut down on your carbon emissions. If you’re going to rent a car – opt for something fuel efficient. It’s not hard to find rental agencies that offer hybrid models in their fleets.
Once you’re at your destination – try to eat and shop locally. It’s the best way to minimize your carbon footprint and support the local community. And more often than not – you’ll end up eating really great food and making some great finds.
If you’re traveling within North America – try the website “eat well guide dot org” to help you plan the “food” portion of your trip.
Most of us are now using re-usable water bottles here at home… why not take yours with you on vacation? Drinking locally sourced water means you’re not buying plastic bottles that often travel thousands of miles before you buy them.
And one last thing… If weather permits, try a walking tour. They’re low-impact and usually inexpensive. And not only do they lessen your carbon footprint, but they can also help you get to know a town or city a lot better.
Just a few things to help you get started being more sustainable when you’re on your next vacation…
By Claire Newell, Travel Expert