Being Ecologically Aware Whilst Travelling
Whether or not you are ecologically aware whilst you travel probably isn't a question you have asked yourself often, if at all. But being eco-conscious on your trips is easier than you think, and it makes a big difference!
Packing
Let's start with packing. It can be tough deciding what to take, but do you really need ten t-shirts and ten shorts for a week's holiday? Will you really wear that dress? And do you need the kitchen sink?
Take a moment to step back from jumping on the suitcase, trying to get it zipped up, and reevaluate what you actually need. Be ruthless and take out the things you don't need. By packing a lighter suitcase, the plane will weigh less and produce fewer carbon emissions. If everyone on the flight did that, think of how much fuel would be saved and how much lower the carbon emissions could be.
Travelling
Where possible on holiday, and when travelling to and from the airport, use public transport like trains and buses. It adds to your experience and reduces your carbon footprint. If you need a hire car, pick the smallest one you can; smaller cars create fewer emissions.
If your holiday destination is over five hundred miles, try to pick a direct flight rather than several connecting flights. Take-off and landing consume the most fuel, so reducing the number of flights is better for the environment.
Accommodation
Treat your hotel as if it were your home. Turn off lights when you're not using them or when you leave the room, and do the same with air conditioning and heating. You don't need clean towels or bedding every day, and you can take shorter showers. Also, don't leave the tap running while brushing your teeth. These small actions help reduce electricity and water usage, making your stay more eco-friendly.
Food
One of the great experiences of travelling is trying different cuisines. By eating at local and family-run restaurants, you're likely to enjoy local produce and drinks, boosting the local economy and keeping your carbon footprint low since your food hasn't traveled far.
Try not to use plastic bags or drink from plastic bottles. Bringing reusable ones will save you from worrying about finding recycling points. These small steps can significantly reduce your plastic waste.
With these few tips and tricks, you'll be making a small but important contribution to lowering your carbon footprint and protecting the environment while enjoying your travels.
*Content correct at time of writing and subject to change.
