Staying environmentally-conscious while traveling may seem challenging, but taking strides to reduce your carbon footprint while on the road or abroad is actually much easier than you might think. With a few minor changes to your habits and acute awareness of your actions, you can limit your negative impact on the environment while still enjoying your trip.
Unplug & Disconnect
Before you leave for your trip, take time to ensure you turn off all non-essential items in your home. Adjusting the thermostat, unplugging devices, and shutting off your water heater are easy ways to reduce the amount of wasted energy in your home.
Smart Transportation
When traveling on the ground to an airport or around an unfamiliar city, make the most out of public transportation rather than hailing a cab or an Uber. Ridesharing is one of the easiest ways to get around without causing more harm to the environment than what is otherwise unavoidable. And, often times, ridesharing is the fastest way to get through or around traffic especially during busy times. For example, in Georgia where traffic around Atlanta, Midtown and Buckhead can be epic at times, utilizing MARTA to get to the airport is typically the quickest, easiest and most cost effective way to stay on schedule. Or in New York City, when attempting to get uptown to downtown or vice versa, the subway system is typically the best choice!
If you are exploring a city or town you have the option to walk or even nowadays you typically have the option to rent a scooter or bike that you do not even have to return to the same place giving you the opportunity to explore at will. Plus, not only will you reduce your carbon footprint by an incredible amount, you’ll also get some exercise and probably take in a unique view or several of that particular region.
Reusable Bottles
Rather than send dozens of plastic bottles to the landfill, you could bring your own reusable water bottle to accompany you on flights, hikes, and other adventures. In some regions, bottled water is recommended to ensure the water is drinkable, but in these cases, you can simply opt for a bottle with a built-in filter.
Ecotourism
For those who are keen on making an impact while traveling, ecotourism may be something to consider. When embarking on a trip dedicated to ecotourism, travelers will prioritize exploration with a minimal carbon footprint. With a focus on education, community service, conservation, and more, ecotourism is ideal for activists who want to make a difference no matter where they are.
Many elements of travel can result in a significant carbon footprint, but there are ways you can reduce the impact of your travels on the earth. By taking the above ideas into consideration, you can limit your carbon footprint while enjoying your travels. Personally, I consciously try to be aware of the greater good as I go about my daily life including when I travel personally or for work. I’m not educated enough to preach but I do believe that if I consciously make an effort that the steps I take will have an impact. And, if we all make an effort that will have a greater impact so hopefully this blog was helpful to you and the greater good. There is certainly a lot more information out there so if your interest is piqued, I hope you dig in to learn more and when you do, please share!