Travel in a Green Way

Travel has always been an important aspect of the human life. For most of us, there’s that inner excitement which pops up whenever we have a chance to go somewhere new, either for business or simply for fun and leisure. Whatever the purpose behind our migrations, both temporary and permanent, business trips and much needed vacations, there is just something about getting know a new area. This is true today more than ever with so many ways of cheap travel, and when it comes to travel in 2020., it’s important to try and keep sustainability in mind.

When most people hear the term "eco-friendly", they assume the only way to do this is to give up modern luxuries or use up otherwise valuable time and effort in doing so. The reality is, there are many simple and easy ways to do this without sending yourself back into the Dark Ages.

Before you lock the door

If your travel schedule is anywhere near as busy as mine, there’s a high chance your home is being left unattended for long periods of time. This could be a few weeks or even months at a time! It is very important to ensure your house is eco-proofed before you leave for that dream vacation. This includes things such as checking that the thermostat isn’t programmed to heat the home while you’re away, fixing any dripping taps, turning off any standby switches on TVs and radios, as well as checking all lights are off to conserve energy. The idea here is simply lover the carbon footprint of your residence as much as possible while you are not occupying it.

Slow ride… take it easy!

While it is most certainly impossible to travel without any impact to the environment whatsoever, there are, however, several methods to reduce it drastically. For instance, most modern airlines give you an option to ‘offset’ your carbon emission via a roughly $10 donation, but there are ways to get your carbon footprint even lower for cheaper than flying! I am, of course, talking about busses and train. Yes, I know, these trips can sometimes take way longer, nut a good podcast or an engaging book make any journey go by quickly!

Who has time to find parking?

Once you arrive at your destination, it is important to be green while traveling the area. If it’s feasible, use public transport as much as possible. Riding a bike everywhere is not only good for your environment but your health as well? Or, if the distance isn’t anything extreme, walking is an amazing way to get anywhere for free and also an amazing way to get to know a place up close and personal.

A little less paper for me, thank you

In an age of smartphones, extremely fast laptops, tablets, etc., printing boarding passes, itineraries and lists of must-see attractions is no longer the most convenient way to keep your plans organized. It’s much more convenient and, not to mention, to use your laptop or phone to go through files such as these. Also, try and always have a tote bag or a paper coffee cup with you to reduce waste.

Local is always the way

Not only is it better to be familiar with the local cuisine of the area, you’re supporting local businesses who will either grow their own healthy produce or likely use fresh ingredients from nearby farms and markets. You can get a McDonald’s or KFC in nearly every city, and these places often ship in frozen and packaged items from all over the world. Avoid these chain restaurants and eat locally. The same goes for buying any fruit or veg for a snack, as it’s far better to use farmers’ markets than the big supermarkets located everywhere. You will find both of these in abundance in Croatia, and you can not be in a better place for natural and healthy food.

And there you have it, some things to keep in mind for your next journey. Of course, this is just the tip of the ice-berg of the possible ways to make sure you leave your footprint in your photos and memories and not in our environment.