Great Green Idea: Green Travel: Tread Lite-Save the Earth

Tread Lite-Save the Earth

Now more than ever it is imperative that every effort be made to preserve the planet's resources. Unfortunately, there are still those precious few people left who still don't understand that it takes the work of every human being to bring healing to the environment. Of course you, Dear Reader, are making every possible effort to keep the planet green, including recycling and energy conservation. While it is highly commendable that these actions have become a daily routine, it is equally important to remember to take these habits along during vacation travel and business travel expeditions. It is possible, or rather necessary, to continue to stay on course while away from home.

The enjoyment of being away from home does not have to be sacrificed in order to incorporate a passion for staying green and eco friendly. In fact, millions of travelers are committed to keeping their vacation travel fun with the least amount of negative impact on the environment as possible. In fact, the travel industry has made this easier than ever by taking these issues very seriously and offering eco friendly options to travelers.

As incentive to taking traveling green seriously, consider that air travel leaves the largest carbon footprint, in the form of carbon dioxide emissions, than any other form of transportation. Just one 1600 mile plane flight releases the same amount of carbon dioxide into the air as an SUV does in an entire month. Sadly, that fact is just the tip of the iceberg of the negative impact that vacation travel and business travel can have on the environment. The possibility that future generations will not be able to enjoy a lovely island sunset because of the erosion of Hawaii's beaches due to hotel construction along the beach is quite chilling. Dismal, yes.

Though these facts are sobering, the good news is that the travel industry has long been committed to jump on the green band wagon, so to speak, and offer lodging, travel and entertainment that allow guilt free fun. Hotels, resorts and bed and breakfasts all over the world offer environmentally friendly accommodations. These lodges are just waiting for you to book your stay and they welcome questions about their recycling programs and the methods they use to ensure energy conservation.

It is important to follow through on green vacation travel and business travel by making choices that are healthy for the environment when it comes to transportation in the destination city. Riding a bicycle or walking can take the place of taxicabs, for instance. Vacation travel should be planned ahead of time to choose destinations that reinforce the desire to help with the conservation of the planet. There are travel agencies that will arrange everything needed for a complete vacation from transportation, lodging and entertainment; all with the environment and its preservation as the focus of the trip.

There is no real reason why important issues like conservation, carbon footprint and other environmental concerns have to be left behind when traveling. Enjoy the vacation and pick up a green souvenir for that friend or neighbor who just doesn't get it while you're at it. Efforts that travelers are making to preserve the planet's resources are paying off, one mile at a time.