Let’s face it, we all love to travel. But there’s often that nagging thought about flying more sustainably on our next trip. When the plane takes off, you might feel guilty about your carbon footprint, unless you’re someone who isn’t bothered by it. Fortunately, many of us do care about the environment, which is why I’m sharing some simple tips to help you travel greener.
It’s important to remember that every form of transport that uses fossil fuels is a pollutant. Even the most eco-friendly means of transportation have environmental impacts due to how they’re made. While we can’t completely avoid impacting the environment (unless you live entirely off the grid), there are easy ways to reduce that impact, especially when flying.
To be clear, I’m not suggesting you should never fly again. For example, if you’ve got family in Australia and you live in the UK, you don’t have to sail across oceans for months to visit them. Instead, there are some practical steps you can take to fly more sustainably.
Newer airplanes are generally lighter, more aerodynamic, and fuel-efficient. They’ve got advanced technology that makes them more eco-friendly compared to older models. So, when you’re booking a flight, check out the airline’s website to see what type of plane they’ll be using on your route. Newer models often mean greener travel.
Packing lighter is another simple way to make your flight greener. When planes are lighter, they use less fuel. So, skip stuffing your bags with unnecessary items, and you’ll also find it easier to get around the airport.
Several organizations and airlines offer ways to offset your carbon footprint, like donating loyalty miles or money to environmental projects. Some airlines, like KLM, have options to reduce your carbon footprint directly through their apps or websites, making it convenient for you to contribute to initiatives like reforestation.
Aim to reduce your flight time by taking direct flights whenever possible. It might cost a little more, but it’s usually more efficient. Sometimes, using public transport can be a greener choice than flying. For instance, rather than flying between London and Edinburgh, taking the train is both eco-friendly and time-efficient.
In-flight plastic waste is another issue. Take a reusable water bottle to save on single-use plastics during your flights. Avoid amenity kits that are typically used only once, and consider airlines that offer kits made from recycled materials.
Traveling for longer periods but less frequently can also help. Instead of taking multiple short trips, consider fewer, longer stays. This reduces your flying time and lets you truly enjoy your destination.
Flying economy class is another way to lessen your carbon footprint. More passengers in economy means less space and weight per person, leading to more efficient fuel usage.
Lastly, go digital with your boarding pass to cut down on paper usage. Small actions like downloading your pass on your phone can collectively make a significant impact. By taking these steps, you can help make flying a bit greener.
