Reducing our carbon footprint when we travel is a good goal to have. The changes, while seemingly small, can make a big difference if more people pitch in. Kim Wonderley has a few suggestions in the Road Report.
Of course, air travel is one of the biggest offenders when it comes to contributing greenhouse gases, but one thing you can do if your'e interested in traveling green is to pack lightly. The heavier the airplane, the more fuel it will burn —it's as simple as that.
Also, consider booking with some of the more eco-friendly airlines like Delta, which runs a recycling program and invests heavily in carbon offset. Alaska Airlines is a good choice too. Like Delta they're transparent about CO2 emissions and their efforts to cut fuel consumption. Plus, they no longer serve plastic straws and they turn their coffee grounds into compost.
Now, that SFO has banned single-use water bottles, it's a great time to invest in a collapsible bottles to save space. While you're at it, consider bringing your own reusable spork too and refuse the disposable plastic cutlery that airlines provide.
Want some incentive to do the right thing? Just google the Great Pacific Garbage Patch floating between Hawaii and California. It's roughly twice the size of Texas. Clearly, we need to do more to waste less.
When it comes to hotels, some chains are better than others. Intercontinental or the IHG Group made news recently with a decision to get rid of single-use toiletries in favor of bulk size dispensers to cut down on plastic waste at Holiday Inns and other hotels.
No matter where you lay your head, you can let housekeeping know if you need fresh towels daily or if you need the sheets washed. Little things also mean a lot. Turn off the air conditioner when you leave and shut the lights.
