In the last few decades, global warming has gone from being thought of as “liberal alarmism” to a proven fact, supported by both scientific evidence and visual proof in documentaries and photos. Some people have started changing their habits, like carpooling to work and buying local products. But what about when it comes to travel?
Even though many travel companies and hotels claim to be “eco-friendly” and “sustainable,” it often feels like these are just trendy buzzwords. Does that mean you have to give up flying altogether?
Thankfully, we’ve come up with a few straightforward tips that will allow you to travel more sustainably without compromising on quality or convenience.
Fly Less
Air travel produces greenhouse gases, like carbon dioxide from burning fuel, which contributes to global warming. According to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), an economy-class flight from London to New York emits an estimated 0.67 tonnes of CO2 per passenger. To put that in context, the average CO2 emissions per person in Zambia is about 0.3 tonnes.
If you’re feeling guilty about flying, you might have heard of the “Flygskam” or “flight-shame” movement, which started in Sweden in 2018. Prominent Swedes signed an article pledging to reduce their flights due to their negative impact on the environment. This movement seems to be making a difference, as domestic flights in Sweden dropped by nine percent, and overall air traffic decreased by four percent in 2019.
Some people are fine with going on a “flight diet” and reducing the number of flights they take, but completely giving up flying can be challenging. Some people need to fly for work or to visit family far away, while others don’t want to miss out on escaping to warmer or more exciting destinations.
Take the Train
If you’re looking for an alternative to long-distance travel, consider taking the train. Eurail estimates that this can reduce your carbon footprint by 66 to 75 percent compared to driving or flying. In Europe, which has an efficient high-speed rail network, train journey times can be similar to taking a flight.
For example, it takes around three hours and 19 minutes to travel from Paris to Amsterdam by train, which is only slightly longer than flying (if you include travel to and from the airport but exclude check-in time). Flying from Paris to Amsterdam emits 97.3 kilograms of CO2, while the train journey emits only 9.6 kilograms.
Apart from being more eco-friendly, there are other advantages to train travel. You have more freedom to move around, access to a bar and buffet car, and the opportunity to enjoy scenic views as you travel through the countryside. Train seats can also be surprisingly comfortable, especially compared to cramped economy flight seats.
Stay in an Eco-Friendly Hotel
If the term “eco-friendly” hotel brings to mind compost toilets and bug-infested rooms with no electricity, you’ll be pleased to know that even high-end hotels are embracing environmentally friendly practices. Many of these hotels have sustainability and environmental certifications, such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) certification.
One outstanding example of an eco-friendly resort is the Brando, an eco-luxury resort in French Polynesia. It’s constructed using local and recyclable materials, runs entirely on renewable energy, and uses an innovative air conditioning system powered by deep-sea water. Despite its eco-friendly approach, it offers a luxurious experience with amenities like a spa, private villas with pools, and a pristine island setting.
If you don’t have time to research the sustainability credentials of different hotels, there are eco-friendly travel booking websites like Eco BnB and Green Pearls that have already done the work for you.
Take a Staycation
Choosing to vacation close to home, especially in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, not only reduces your carbon footprint by avoiding long-haul flights but also saves you money on transportation and travel essentials. Staycations are more convenient and require less planning, allowing you to hop in your car on a Friday night and arrive at your destination just a few hours later.
Don’t be quick to dismiss the idea of a staycation; you’ll be surprised by the variety of experiences and activities available nearby. For example, if you’re in Norwich, you’re less than two hours away from London by train and just an hour from the Norfolk Coast, home to the UK’s largest seal colony at Blakeney Point.
Choose a Responsible Tour Company
For those who prefer guided tours, many travel companies are actively working to reduce their carbon footprint and adopt sustainable practices. In 2019, 78 travel companies formed ‘Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency,’ committing to develop climate emergency plans and lower their carbon emissions per trip.
Better Places Travel, for instance, launched its Positive Impact Trips, which collaborate with small-scale, local operators to benefit communities and focus on low-impact accommodations. These initiatives aim to create travel experiences that positively contribute to both local communities and the natural environment while providing a great experience for travellers.
Many travel companies now feature sections on their websites dedicated to their most environmentally friendly trips. Inn Travel offers a wide range of responsible holidays, including cycling trips in Provence and scenic train journeys in Switzerland. These examples show that travelling responsibly doesn’t mean sacrificing quality, comfort, or adventure.
