Global warming, smog and toxic chemicals are causing you sleepless nights. You’re ready for a vacation, but you’re worried that travel is bad for the planet.
Yes, travel – especially air travel – can carry a hefty environmental price tag and burns fossil fuels — it’s estimated that between 2 – 10% of greenhouse emissions are from aircraft. But if you’ve been saving for a dream trip to an exotic locale, go ahead, indulge yourself. Experiencing different cultures, dabbling in languages, seeing history and learning how others live is rewarding, educational, inspirational and an important part of the human experience.
There’s no question, however, that the planet is in bad shape, so when you travel you should reduce your environmental footprint as much as is practical. Here are six common-sense tips that will lessen your travel impact … and will let you sleep better.
Travel offers a conundrum. On the one hand it emits greenhouse gases and has a relatively large environmental footprint. On the other hand, travel is an important part of enjoying a full, well-rounded life, and it helps us get in touch with other cultures. Like many things, balance is required. So, go ahead and make those travel plans, but do it responsibly.