How to: reduce your carbon footprint on holiday
Holidays are a time for fun and carelessness, not worrying about your carbon sandal-print. The best way to ensure you have a guilt-free break is to plan ahead, taking note of the steps you can take to ensure your behaviour on holiday is kind to the environment, such as remembering to turn off your hot water before you leave.
Follow the jump for some top tips on how to make this year's summer holiday the greenest yet.
Before you go
• Don't overlook the potential to holiday at home. Explore some of the areas of outstanding natural beauty, blue flag beaches and historic buildings that the UK has to offer.
• Choose accommodation that operates sustainably and look for signs that your hotel is taking steps to reduce their environmental impact, for example by being more energy efficient or asking guests not to request fresh linen and towels. Some organisations also offer guidance on sustainable holiday options.
• Why not turn your hot water off while you are away on your summer holiday? you will save energy and money.
• Consider taking public transport rather than driving to the airport. Have a look at www.transportdirect.info which will help you plan your journey anywhere in mainline Britain and compare car and public transport options to see which option has the lowest carbon emissions.
• Taking one longer holiday will have a lower impact than going on several short trips if you are flying each time.
• If you are flying to your holiday destination, one choice is to offset the carbon emissions your trip generates by paying for projects which reduce emissions elsewhere.
While you're there
• Try not to abandon your good habits on holiday: remember to switch off air-conditioning, appliances and lights as you would at home.
• Try something different, such as exploring by bike or on foot -- you'll get to see the area in a new way and come back feeling fitter!
• Help the local economy by buying food, drink and souvenirs that are produced locally and in season. This will help reduce the carbon emissions associated with transport.
• When on holiday, try to reduce your car use. Look for other ways to get around like trains, trams, cycling or walking.
• If you are renting a car on holiday why not hire a fuel efficient car if possible.
When you get back
• When you've finished with your holiday brochures, pass them on to a friend or recycle them.
• Don't throw away holiday clothes try to reuse them another year or give to a charity shop.
