If the words “green travel” or “eco-tourism” make you think of sleeping a tree house in the jungle or a tent on the beach, rest assured that traveling green can be quite luxurious and still earth friendly. Green travelers are those who respect the local natural and cultural environment, at home and on the road. With close to one billion tourists roaming the earth annually, it’s more critical than ever to minimize your individual impact on its resources. Follow these simple tips to travel green:
Chose your transportation thoughtfully. For shorter trips, take a train rather than flying. If you need to rent a car, choose the smallest one that makes sense, and rent a hybrid if possible. If you’re traveling with others, car-share or carpooling plans make the most sense. Whenever possible, take public transportation. And if you do have to fly, consider carbon offsetting; for every mile you travel, you pay a small fee to offset the ecological damage done by your flight. According to USA Today, a flight from New York to Denver produces as much carbon dioxide per passenger as an SUV produces in a month. Go to www.enviro.aero.com for more information on greener air travel. Both Expedia and Travelocity have partnerships with non-profits that support carbon offsetting.
Find green hotels and be an eco-friendly guest. There are plenty of environmentally friendly hotels, inns, and B&Bs out there; you just have to look online. Once you’ve checked in, take short showers and don’t run water when you brush your teeth (just like at home!). Use the “No room service” option offered at many hotels; hang up towels to reuse, and don’t ask to have your sheets changed every night. Bring your own toiletries. Turn off lights, heat, or air conditioning when you leave your room. Find out if your lodging has a recycling program instead of tossing empty cans and bottles in the trash.
Practice responsible sightseeing. Wherever your travels take you, try to walk whenever possible rather than renting a car or hailing a taxi. Many areas have generous bike lanes, so bringing or renting a bike is another green option for getting around. Some cities, such as Portland, Oregon, have free public transit in the downtown area, so hop on a bus and enjoy the ride. Subways can also be a new and interesting way to travel in urban areas.
Buy and eat locally. Try to buy local products instead of those that have been flown or shipped in from elsewhere. This helps support the local economy, plus you’ll get a feel for the native culture. Remember, it makes a lot more sense to eat that luscious ripe papaya in Hawaii than to buy it at the grocery store on the mainland, just as you should pass up those berries from California when you’re in New York.
By making smart, sensible choices, it’s possible to see (and taste) the world and still be green.
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