Decrease Flight Emissions

Impact

Medium impact

Cost

Affordable

Time

Moderate

Overseas adventures, relaxing getaways, and family trips can be highlights of a lifetime. Let's protect the planet that we love to explore. When you’re planning your next vacation, consider the following adjustments to lessen your footprint:

1. Reduce transport emissions

The aviation sector accounts for around 2.5% of CO₂ emissions worldwide. Decrease your flight emissions by vacationing closer to home, choosing land transportation where possible, and offsetting flights that can’t be avoided.

Once you’re at your destination, get around by walking, renting a bike, or taking public transit if available. Many cities have excellent public transit systems, which can be significantly faster than taking a taxi from place to place.

2. Eat sustainably

Travel is an excellent opportunity to try new cuisines. Eating local, in-season produce is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint, and you can opt for plant-based options when it makes sense. If you eat seafood, check out Seafood Watch to see which choices are the most environmentally sustainable—they have guides for the United States and references for other countries.

3. Reduce waste

Plan ahead for how you’ll reduce waste on your travels. Fruit and baked goods from local markets are better than plastic-wrapped snacks. Bring a reusable water bottle, shopping bag, and utensils to avoid single-use plastics, and dispose of waste properly. Souvenirs can also become waste if they turn into clutter at home. Only purchase items that you can imagine fitting into your future, and do your best to ensure they are ethically, sustainably, and locally made.

4. Travel mindfully

Educate yourself about the local environment and its challenges and adjust your behavior accordingly—such as using reef-safe sunscreen in tropical locations or being conscious of water usage if there’s a shortage. Some countries have resources to assist with learning, such as New Zealand’s Tiaki Promise:

Tiaki Promise - Care for New Zealand #TiakiPromise

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