Travel Smarter

All travels are more or less a strain on the environment, but that doesn’t mean we should avoid it. We just need to learn how to travel smarter and more eco-friendly.

Air travel

No other type of transport, apart from some ferries, are more harmful to the environment than flying. Over 4,3 billion flights are made each year and the estimation for 2025 is 9 billion flights. The charter companies flights are in general a better choice than regular flights since approximately 98% of the seats are occupied on every plane. If you choose a regular flight, rather book a non-stop flight than a route with stop-overs which take an enormous amount of fuel. Also, don’t fly too often. Decide to stay longer when you travel to far-away destinations instead of making the same trip multiple times a year.

Plane at Seoul airport

Plane at Seoul airport © Karen Winton

Rail travel

Train is by far a better alternative than flying but since much of the electricity comes from coal, oil and natural gas, you may make the environment a favor by taking the bus.

Voyager - Manchester

Voyager – Manchester © Jon Wisbey

Boat travel

Boats are in general the most harmful means of transport, at least if you see to the letting out of sulfur- and nitrogen oxides. A slow ferry is more environment friendly than a fast one, and shorter trips are obviously better than long boat journeys.

Sail away

Sail away © Aschwin Prein

Independent travel

Choose a car driven by renewable sources of energy, and travel together rather than only two persons in a five seat car.

tim driving with a beautiful girl Travel Smarter

driving with a beautiful girl – Tim

Living

When you travel to places with shortage of water, avoid resorts with large parks and golf courses as the artificial green take much water from areas that risk turning into desert. Bed and Breakfasts, where the money goes to the local economy, instead of big hotel chains is a good alternative.

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2 Responses to “Travel Smarter”

  1. Corinne 21. Nov, 2008 at #

    How about sailing on a Tall Ship? The most environmentally friendly way to travel of all and the most amazing of experiences. Seeing the stars while out in the middle of the ocean with only the wind noise, is exceptional. Recommend it to everyone!

  2. Erica Johansson 25. Nov, 2008 at #

    @Corinne, You’re right about that. One of the most peaceful experiences would be to sit on a tall ship, and gaze up at the stars while you have nothing but ocean around you.

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