# 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](https://ourworldindata.org/global-aviation-emissions) worldwide. Decrease your flight emissions by vacationing closer to home, choosing land transportation where possible, and [offsetting flights](https://www.wren.co/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](https://www.seafoodwatch.org/recommendations/download-consumer-guides) and [references for other countries](https://www.seafoodwatch.org/recommendations/international-seafood-ratings).

### **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](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=06-CGGFUQTQ)

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