With the travel industry responsible for 8% of total global emissions, every action you take to curb your carbon footprint is worthwhile. Here are some essential considerations to implement ahead of your next trip.
1. Fly Smart
If you choose to fly, reduce in-flight emissions by selecting a carbon-efficient airline, opting for a direct flight, and flying in coach (economy) class instead of business. Additional strategies include lowering window shades to help maintain a cooler cabin, bringing your own amenities and snacks, or preordering a plant-based meal.
2. Pack Light
No matter the mode of transport you use to reach your destination, a lighter suitcase not only makes travel easier but also requires less energy to transport.
3. Utilize Public Transport
Using public transport, or even better, a cycle rickshaw, can significantly reduce emissions while providing an authentic local experience. Many cities globally offer affordable bike, e-bike, or scooter share options, making them convenient choices.
4. Choose Electric Vehicles or E-Taxis
The infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs) is improving across the globe each year. Although major ride-sharing apps have yet to implement EV booking systems, they are actively incentivizing drivers to transition to electric vehicles.
5. Sleep Green
Low-carbon hotels generally operate on renewable energy, use energy-efficient lighting and appliances, recover rainwater, recycle, and source local products. To minimize your carbon footprint further, consider forgoing housekeeping services and reducing electricity and water usage.
6. Engage in Low-Carbon Activities
Opting for activities such as walking tours, cycling, or non-motorized snorkeling not only supports your health but also benefits the planet, reducing overall emissions.
7. Avoid Tourist Souvenirs
Common tourist souvenirs often contribute to high emissions, as they are frequently made from plastic or chemically modified fabrics in production facilities that release significant pollutants, and require transportation via gas-guzzling vehicles.
8. Eat Local
Sampling local delicacies at locally-run stalls and restaurants enriches your travel experience while helping to reduce food miles, which are the emissions generated from transporting food. Moreover, small farms are more likely to adopt eco-friendly practices, such as avoiding toxic pesticides.
9. Reduce Meat Consumption
Greenhouse gas emissions from agribusiness are projected to surpass all other sectors, including energy and transport. Therefore, one of the most impactful ways to reduce emissions while traveling is by lowering meat intake, particularly red meat, known for high livestock emissions.
10. Embrace Zero-Waste Travel
Every product you use during your travels requires energy to produce, additional energy to recycle, and releases emissions when it degrades. Consequently, by minimizing waste, you can also significantly reduce emissions.
11. Limit Shower Time
From Cape Town to Kathmandu, many popular travel destinations face water shortages. By conserving water, you can lower the demand on local water supplies and simultaneously reduce emissions associated with water treatment and pumping.
12. Offset Carbon for All Journeys
All forms of transport contribute to carbon emissions. Services like offCents track and offset emissions from car, train, and plane trips, while Swiss non-profit MyClimate caters to offsetting car journeys, cruises, and more. Additionally, various subscription apps offer seamless carbon offsetting options, such as Wren, which allows you to calculate a monthly offset fee based on your lifestyle.
13. Line-Dry Your Clothes
While there may not always be adequate time to line-dry your garments on the go, it’s important to note that using a dryer consumes five times more electricity than washing. Thus, packing a travel clothes line can be beneficial when circumstances allow.
This excerpt is from The Sustainable Travel Handbook: Practical advice and inspiration for the conscientious traveller, published by Lonely Planet in November 2020.
