Eco-Friendly Transport Options in 2020
Photo by And Beyond
Travelling is an incredible experience that allows you to visit new places, enjoy exciting new experiences, and learn about different cultures all around the world. However, global travel is having a damaging effect on the environment and tourism is responsible for around 8 percent of the world’s carbon emissions according to a recent study. This makes the tourism sector a bigger polluter than the construction industry. While some emissions are unavoidable while travelling, there are plenty of ways to make your holidays greener. With this in mind, here are some of the top eco-friendly transport options in 2020.
Carbon Offset
Flying is one of the biggest producers of carbon emissions and will form the largest part of your holiday footprint. It should therefore be avoided whenever possible. Understandably, there may be times when flying is unavoidable i.e. if you're planning a once in a lifetime to an exotic country on the other side of the world. If you have no option but to fly to your chosen destination, then it’s possible to reduce your impact on the environment through carbon offsetting your flight. Carbon offsets are schemes that aim to reduce the environmental impact of air travel by supporting sustainable projects that lower emissions in some way. For instance, you may contribute to a renewable energy programme in your home country. You can work out the carbon emissions produced by your flights by inserting details into a carbon offset calculator.
Coach Travel
As mentioned, flying is one of the most environmentally-damaging methods of transport. You can significantly reduce the emissions associated with travel by opting for eco-friendly vehicles like coaches. Large coaches usually have the capacity to transport up to 60 passengers, which makes them far more sustainable than cars or minivans. Fortunately, there is a great selection of coach holidays to choose from, with many companies offering luxury facilities such as onboard toilets, stewardesses, and spacious reclining seats. According to experts at Just Go Holidays - “Coach holidays are one of the most comfortable, relaxing ways to take a short break or longer holiday across the UK and Europe.” A coach trip will also allow you to visit various different interesting locations and take part in lots of exciting activities.
Train Trips
Trains are another environmentally-friendly mode of transport and allow you to travel long distances in a relatively short amount of time. Like coaches, trains can carry large volumes of passengers, which makes them far more sustainable than other modes of transport. Quite often, it is possible to travel overland rather than taking a short flight i.e. if you are moving locations within a country. Travelling by train is a cheaper and more adventurous way of travelling to your destination, plus you will get to experience beautiful scenery on route. Many trains come equipped with fantastic facilities such as restaurants, bars, and comfortable cabins with beds if you are travelling overnight. According to travel experts at worldnomads.com - “Cutting out just one five-hour flight will reduce your carbon footprint by one tonne.” For that reason, you should always explore whether it is possible to reach your destination by train or using another green mode of transport.
Other green travel tips
The method of transport you choose to reach your destination will play a crucial role in your overall holiday footprint. However, it is equally important to be eco-conscious once you reach your destination. Here are some useful tips to help you cut down emissions and be a green traveller:
Take public transport when you reach your destination instead of using taxis.
Pack a refillable water bottle and avoid buying plastic bottles.
Eat in local restaurants that offer organic and locally-sourced produce.
Reduce energy waste by only turning on air conditioning or heating units when necessary. Make sure that lights and appliances are switched off when you go out.
Only request a change of towels and bedding every few days when staying in a hotel or guesthouse. Hanging up your towel is a universal sign to say that you’re happy to use it again.
Final Thoughts
Advancements in technology have made travel more accessible than ever and more and more people are taking advantage of cheap airfares and holiday deals. While travel is an amazing experience, you should be aware of the impact that global tourism is having on our environment. Everyone should have the opportunity to enjoy travel, but you must take responsibility for your environmental impact and take steps to make tourism as sustainable as possible. Use some of the above tips to help you plan your next green travel adventure!