Green Travel 101

Travel can take us to unknown destinations and connect our lives by providing us with a break from our fastidious existence at the same time. In addition, traveling allows us to unwind, refresh and reconnect with nature. But as relaxing and pleasant as it sounds, it can also have a negative impact on our beloved Planet. We tend to retreat to our lives once we are done, but the mess that we leave behind stays behind. According to The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), it is estimated that 4.8 million tonnes, 14 percent of all solid waste, is produced each year solely by tourists. This waste can conceivably overload waste management systems, especially in more rural destinations or have a low population.

Of course, we can raise awareness and play our part at an individual level by opting for Green Travel. Following is the guide that aims to help reduce the environmental impact of our travel on the planet.

But before we divulge on minimizing the effects of our traveling, let us first know about what Green Travel is.

Green Travel = Literally “Going” Green

Green travel is an umbrella term that can be divided into two main branches. Firstly it focuses on the environment, social, and economic sustainability. Secondly, it is about ecotourism, which involves assuming responsible traveling methods, especially in ecological habitats.

Now the question may arise that why should we assume the responsibility of Green traveling? Well, the Transportation sector alone accounts for a significant portion of a country’s greenhouse gas emissions. According to the EPA, the carbon dioxide emission from transportation is responsible for about 40% of the greenhouse gas emissions. Doing something about it could significantly help lower our collective carbon footprint. Apart from that, the solution is feasible. All you need to do is adopt green travel practices keeping the environment in your mind.

Green Travel Starts at Home

Before you embark on a journey, prepare for green travel by preparing for it at your home. 

• Pack light. The more weight you add to your packing, planes, and vehicles will require more fuel to convey, and the more greenhouse gases (causing the planet's temperature to rise) are discharged into the air. 
• Bring a reusable water container and shopping bags. The water bottle is convenient for drinking fountain fill-ups and you don’t have to buy packaged water. Therefore you will be saving money and not contributing to the mounting plastic waste. The same goes for shopping bags as they will curb unnecessary packaging.
• Don’t forget to switch off and plug it out. As no one will utilize the electricity, it is wise to turn off the switch before leaving. Winding down gadgets save money on the electricity bill and eliminates energy utilization. To make a significantly greater impact, plug out all gadgets since they can "drain" power in any event, when they're not turned on. 
• Temporarily suspend newspaper subscriptions. Call to the newspaper agency can save trees (and the energy of the delivery boy as well) for the time that you're away.

Make Environmentally Smart Traveling Decisions

Choosing a vehicle to reach your destination is crucial. Planes have been quite criticized by environment enthusiasts as it requires a ton of fuel. However, the greenest technique for transportation may rely upon how far you need to go. The "medium carbon footprint" classification goes to regular cars and regional planes. The SUVs and jets, which produce more than one pound of CO2 for each mile are impractical choices when it comes to reducing one’s carbon footprint. Now, what does it mean by making smart traveling decisions?  

• Opt for public transports like the bus. Using buses to commute can be cheaper and drastically reduce your carbon footprint in comparison to using a car or plane. For shorter trips, you should opt for buses or trains as it uses 5 to 7 times less amount of fuel than a plane.
• Rent smaller cars. If you are not traveling with family or a group, there is no point in renting a big car. A smaller car would be equally efficient.
• If traveling by plane, choose a direct route. This will reduce your carbon footprint, as most of the fuel is consumed during landing and taking off. Apart from that, try to fly coach instead of first class. More passengers aboard equals more fuel saved.
• Use a bicycle or e-scooter to visit local places. Many palaces have rental cycles. If you wish to roam around in the local marketplace or go to cafes, instead of renting a car or waiting for the bus you can rent cycle by the hour. This will let you enjoy the place more intimately and hey, no carbon footprints.
• Plant trees. After traveling, if you feel guilty about the CO2 emissions, you can make up for it by planting trees. Trees will use the co2 and give out oxygen, purifying the atmosphere.

Keeping Your Stay Eco-Friendly

Staying at a hotel or crashing with your family or friends, here are ways in which you can still minimize your environmental impact.

• Choose an eco-friendly lodging. There are many environmental enthusiasts on the internet who will gladly fill you in with all the details and a list of eco-friendly hotels you can stay in during your visit. You can also follow up on this by visiting the hotel’s website or calling them. 
• When at a hotel try to save energy. Whenever you leave the room, switch off everything. Save water by limiting your shower time and close the tap while brushing your teeth. Don't have your sheets and towels changed every day if you are living there for a few days.
• Even better if you crash with friends and family. 
• Eating. Instead of spending lavishly on fancy restaurants or fast-food chain stores, where portions are small and prices are higher, stroll around and eat locally. Giant food chain stores are reluctant to cut back on their carbon emission. The local food stalls, vendors, and bistros will give you the real essence and flavour of the locale. At the place you eat, say no to cutlery made of single-use plastics. Carry your own cutlery if possible. And hey, you will be supporting the local businesses and reduce your carbon footprint too.
• Shopping. Do not be captivated by the luring traps of capitalism. Buy what and only what is necessary. Keep your luggage light on your journey back home. Carry a reusable tote bag for shopping everywhere you go. In addition, it goes without saying but always say no to plastic. Try to avoid anything that comes in plastic packaging as they do not vanish into thin air, instead end up polluting the ocean.

Hope we covered all the bases. Comment below and let us know if we left anything out. Have a safe and green travel.

We suggest you also read Rainwater harvesting 101