Green pointers for your climate friendly holiday
Together with you Greenbookings would like to make traveling more climate friendly. For example by compensating the emission caused by your holiday. Of course there are many more ways to make you holiday greener. We’ve rounded upon some helpful pointers so you can enjoy a climate friendly holiday.
Type of transport
Traveling by coach is far less of a strain on the environment in comparison with other means of holiday travel. Another alternative is a modern car, when fully occupied, which was manufactured in the year 2000 or later and finally, when possible, traveling by train is the most sustainable way of travel.
Taking full advantage of your car
When you go on vacation by car you can save up to 10% of your fuel by maintaining a consistent speed in a high gear. Another way of saving fuel is to check the tire pressure of your car. If your tire pressure is up to standard your car will use less fuel and your tires will last longer. Are you taking your bike with you on holiday? Then you should consider hiring this on location. Bikes that are transported on the roof of a car increase the fuel usage by about 20%. Bikes that are transported by a carrier on the back of a car add an extra 5 to 10% of fuel usage.
Souvenirs
Purchasing souvenirs boosts the local economy and creates extra jobs, BUT be careful not to buy souvenirs that are made out of protected animal species, corals or plants. This is harmful to the environment and in most cases it’s prohibited to take back home with you.
Electronic equipment
Try, just like you would at home, to turn off as many electronic devices as possible and not keep them in standby mode. A common example of unnecessary energy wastage is leaving your phone charger in the socket. Enjoy the sun with caution and if it gets too hot, try and sit in the shade before turning on the air-conditioning.
Use less water
While you are on holiday you are quickly inclined to use more water than you would at home. You can reduce your water usage by taking a shower instead of a bath. Just remember, in a lot of countries around the world water is scarce.
Contain environmental damage
Don’t forget to take some carrier bags with you on holiday where you can put newly bought items in. This way less plastic makes its way to the garbage heap.
Respect the nature and local inhabitants
Treat the natural surroundings of your holiday destination with care. Try to only make use of the indicated roads and finally, treat the local people with respect and, if necessary, adjust your clothing to local customs.
Going out for dinner
Are you going for dinner at your holiday destination? Visiting local restaurants is a climate friendly way of consuming and also stimulates local job opportunities and the economy.
Use of towels
Try to use the towels in your apartment or hotel as many times as you can. A lot of the time your towel is only being washed because it is left on the floor. Or go one step further and take some of your own towels with you!
