IS THERE SUCH A THING AS GREEN TRAVEL?That’s a tough question. In a perfect, carbon-neutral world, none of us would ever board an airplane. However, that’s not realistic thinking especially since so many of us live far from close family and friends.
So what can we do to lessen the impact of our travels (and make us feel a little better in the meantime)?
1. Reduce energy consumption at home first.
Take time to estimate your family’s carbon footprint by using one of the many carbon calculators on the web (listed below). The calculations will give you a good idea of where you can reduce your carbon footprint, by walking or taking more public transportation for example.
Calculate your carbon footprint & then reduce it:
2. Consider carbon offsets
There are definite pros and cons with carbon offset programs. Some companies do good work by using your money to purchase forest land or to support other eco-friendly initiatives. But do your research first and consider for yourself if carbon offsets make a difference.
Do carbon offsets work? Find out at:
3. Think about eco-travel
Next time you’re planning a family holiday, have a quick look at the UN-sponsored website www.sustainabletourismcriteria.org. The criteria – which are divided in to four main areas - are an effort "to come to a common understanding of sustainable tourism, and will be the minimum that any tourism business should aspire to reach."
The list - part of the UN’s Millennium Development Goals of poverty alleviation and environmental sustainability - includes such benchmarks as: maximizing social and economic benefits to the local community, conserving resources and respecting local cultural heritage.
It might take a little extra legwork, but after you familiarize yourself with sustainable tourism, you can look for trips and tour operators that aren’t just exploiting the environment and the people who live there.
Here are a few places to start:
