In 2015, people of the world are now far more aware of carbon emissions and its impact on the environment. As a result, carbon offsetting is becoming ingrained in our collective psyche for its importance in reducing carbon dioxide and overall energy release. Carbon offsetting is seen as a way to fund green projects, in order to compensate for any CO2 emissions, such as flying for example. These projects can fund renewable energy projects like solar power, wind turbines, or hydroelectric dams, for example.
The travel industry as a whole is waking up to the benefits of this approach, and is working hard to find creative solutions to keep travelers and Mother Nature equally happy. Even many businesses and corporations are beginning to take environmental concerns more seriously, by partnering with climate protection enterprises to make offsetting more widespread. Online payment company paysafecard recently teamed up with myclimate.org to make real change in the world, through education, consultation, and the development of projects aimed to regulate climate control. Find out more about myclimate’s missions here.
So how exactly is the travel industry doing its part to help out the planet?
Laundry
Without wanting to be too pushy, more hotels nowadays are posting signs, door hangers and brochures in rooms that urge guests to use the same sheets and towel (per person of course) for their entire visit. As most guests stay for typically for two-three days, most hotels feel this is fair and will result in huge savings across the board. In fact, hotels doing fewer laundry cycles has been estimated to reduce water and energy usage by 17 percent, as well as prolong the lifespan of towels and linen.
Flying
Even though air travel makes up only six percent of the overall carbon footprint of transportation, it’s still a significant portion that can be lowered. Most airlines these days offer an option for travelers to select a ‘carbon offset’ cost for their flight, usually for a minimum of $5. While this is not a great deal of extra money for travelers individually, accumulatively it is a helpful addition to funding green projects.
The aviation industry is pursuing a range of developments that could make a big impact, such as solar power in airports, alternative and sustainable fuel, and overall better technology to keep track of emissions.
Hybrid Vehicles
With the Toyota Prius being seen more in city centers and compounding its reputation as one of the best hybrid cars, rental companies such as Avis, Hertz, and Budget are hoping to see even greater change by introducing hybrid options into their range. Choosing to travel across the country in trains or buses is well-known to be a great way to reduce carbon emissions. However, with more hybrid cars becoming commonplace, it’s hoped that these choices will be used for longer car journeys in the future.
Taking a holiday is a special occasion and should of course be a great time for you, but ideally not, wherever possible, at the expense of planet Earth.
