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Green Travel: Getting There Green
Rising fuel costs and ubiquitous discussions on global climate change have brought the "green" movement to the forefront of our attention in recent years. The travel industry hasn't been immune to this phenomenon either, as ecotourism and green travel have become all the rage, as travelers have looked to lessen their impact on the environment, while still visiting all the places that interest them. For the most part, the green movement in travel has been focused on the activities that we take part in once we reach our destination, with an emphasis on those activities being ecologically friendly. But what about the methods of travel we use to reach those destinations? What is their impact on the environment?That's exactly what the Union of Concerned Scientists have been wondering as well, and they have conducted the first in depth study on that very topic. The findings of that study can be found on their Getting Their Greener website, where you'll find the reports on the most and least ecologically friendly methods of travel.
When conducting the study, the research scientists involved looked at three important variables, including the type of vehicle used, the distance traveled, and the number of people sharing that vehicle. The results can be found in the full report and this handy quick reference guide, which breaks down the best travel options for the travelers going solo, in pairs, or as a family of four across distances of 100 miles, 500 miles, and 1000+ miles.
As you can probably guess, air travel doesn't fare well in the study, especially at the shorter distances, although flying economy class does rank as the second best choice when traveling a thousand miles or more. On the other hand, driving a "typical car" or a "typical SUV" is rated well in the 100 and 500 mile categories, and even further for a family, but falls off dramatically for solo travelers and couples.
So what gets the nod for the best overall method of travel for the lowest impact on the environment? Taking the motor coach (or bus) ranks as the top option for all categories and distances. And the worst? While not quite a clear cut, it seems flying first class ranks at the bottom of the green travel list.
This is definitely an interesting study, and one that makes you stop and think about what method of transportation is best when traveling. Of course, you are sometimes limited in your options, as last time I checked, there were no motor coaches to Europe. Still, as responsible travelers, it's important to weigh all are options, and make an informed choice that is both good for the environment, and right for our pocket books.
So what gets the nod for the best overall method of travel for the lowest impact on the environment? Taking the motor coach (or bus) ranks as the top option for all categories and distances. And the worst? While not quite a clear cut, it seems flying first class ranks at the bottom of the green travel list.
This is definitely an interesting study, and one that makes you stop and think about what method of transportation is best when traveling. Of course, you are sometimes limited in your options, as last time I checked, there were no motor coaches to Europe. Still, as responsible travelers, it's important to weigh all are options, and make an informed choice that is both good for the environment, and right for our pocket books.
Filed under: Activism, Ecotourism
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 1)
ErieTravels Jan 2nd 2009 1:51PM
Green travel I am afraid to tell you has been around for decades, we just got away from it. Remember the days when we all back packed around Europe after college because we were trying to find our inspiration? Well it is actually making a comeback for adults. Many people (especially ones that work free lance) have been utilizing this type of travel to motivate and inspire their work. I came across a link to Marie Jarvin's book "Stalking the Wild Dik Dik" which chronicled her misadventures across Africa quite interesting. Not ever been to Africa myself I found myself thinking that I NEED to put it on my short list of places to visit after reading the book and her blog. As many people these days concerned about the environment I too want to make sure that my imprint is minor so the information on the backpacking circuit was very helpful and yes it made me think about the good ole days of backpacking travel and seeing the world before I had to grow up.
Kraig Dec 31st 2008 11:52AM
Good point! Green travel really isn't a new concept, it's just come more the forefront in recent years thanks to fuel prices and a greater concern for the environment. All things "green" have become buzzwords of late.
Oh, and definitely visit Africa. It's amazing and well worth the trip. The continent is huge though, and offers a wide variety of experiences depending on where you go. :)
Eero Mar 26th 2009 3:25PM
Green Tourism of Finland® (GTF) provides Finnish nature tourism in accordance with sustainable development by bringing together Finnish companies of tourist industry which respect the consideration of sustainable development.
www.greentourism.fi
Green Tourism of Finalnd
Accommodation, nutritional and transport services labeled with Green Tourism of Finland® (GTF) certificate guarantees a very high qualification for the nature tourism considering the sustainable development.
By using tourism companies labeled with Green Tourism of Finland® (GTF) certificate you are in on supporting promotion of financial, social and environmental welfare.
Green Travel Finland www.greentravel.fi
Kristen Jan 1st 2009 9:33PM
This is really helpful! I mean, we always try to carpool, but it's nice to have a solid method of figuring out the best option. I've been checking out green hotels lately, and I'm dying to stay here:
http://hotels.uptake.com/blog/westin-diplomat-resort-and-spa-hollywood-florida-483.html
Kimbereley Jan 19th 2009 9:48AM
There is a brand new travel website that I have been using for over a year now called http://www.RezHub.com. I have booked several flights,
car rentals and hotels using RezHub.com
What I like about RezHub.com is when you book through them you are helping to make a difference in the world and you may not even know it.
With the launch of their Green Travel website, travelers can book with green hotels, hybrid rental cars, and participate in carbon offsetting
programs… OR book the vacation of their dreams and still feel good (and green) about it.
Even though you might be flying the friendly skies just think how good you will feel about traveling when you use RezHub.com. This company is donating 20% of their revenue from all travel booked at the Green
Travel Hub to a green organization.
Not only can you have fun on your vacation, but you feel good about making a difference knowing 20% went to help out a green organization.
Another cool feature that RezHub.com offers is their Volunteer Travel section. Your trip can still make a difference. When you book your vacation at the Volunteer Travel Hub, 20% of their profits are donated back to VolunteerMatch.org this way you can help spread the spirit of volunteering whether you have time to give or not.
Yes, I know there are MANY different travel sites out there, but I have to say this is far the best one I have yet to come across.
I know times are tough right now. But at least when I have to travel I know I feel good about traveling!!!