6 tips for sustainable travel

Let’s face it: high airfares and gas prices don’t make it easy to travel right now. And the greenhouse gases emitted from those modes of transportation are not particularly good. Commercial air travel accounts for 4 percent of carbon emissions in the United States alone. For those who like to see the world, it can be difficult to give up air time. But you can travel a little more sustainably with the following strategies.

Of course, it is convenient to drive in your own car. But on average, each vehicle emits about 1 pound of CO2 per mile. Public transport, such as trains and buses, reduces carbon emissions by 45%. Fewer private cars on the road should reduce traffic and contribute to better air quality. Plus, booking a bus ticket is often cheaper than buying a private rental or paying for your own gas.

If you must fly somewhere, choose a carbon-friendly airline. The International Air Transport Association offers airlines carbon offset programs that take sustainable tourism into account. Many airlines show how to adjust emissions when booked.

If you can, consider walking instead of driving while exploring on vacation. Walking (or biking) is more environmentally friendly, good for your health, and a great way to take in the sights while fully immersing yourself in the local surroundings.

Perfect for grabbing a quick coffee or bottle of water on the go. But when you finish your drink, you’re left with plastic waste that ends up in the trash. In the year In 2015, 730,000 tons of single-use plastic was produced in the U.S.—and only 13 percent of that was successfully recycled. Single-use plastics are a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions based on fossil fuels. Some estimates suggest that fossil fuels in the plastics industry contribute 12.5-1.5 million metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions.

Bring a reusable water bottle or coffee cup with you when you’re traveling (some places may offer discounts for using your own mug), and if you’re planning to pack toiletries, choose zero-waste ones.

Consider using solar chargers to keep your devices warm while you travel. You can also save water by taking shorter showers and asking hotels not to change your sheets and towels too often.

Be sure to turn off or turn down the air conditioner or heat when you go out exploring; Drawing the curtains during the day will help your living room to have a more pleasant temperature. And those tourist brochures that most people take and throw away? After browsing them, try to come back.

Make sure your home is as energy efficient as possible when you’re away. Unplug any unnecessary appliances, adjust the thermostat, and put your lights on a timer so they’re not always on.

While it’s good to consider the environment when you travel, it’s also important to be aware of your environment’s influence. According to the World Tourism Organization, out of every $100 spent on tourism, only $5 goes back to local residents. Whenever possible, consider getting local guides or places to stay. This will let you know about the community by giving your money directly to the people who need it most. Buy handmade souvenirs and gifts and eat local food too!

Some types of travel cause more greenhouse gases than others. When preparing to choose your travel destination and activities, consider opting for a low-impact option. You can choose to go canoeing or camping, or go somewhere much closer to home. They can also hold ecological guidelines that prioritize protecting the environment and supporting local communities.