Make Your Getaway More Green

Travel is not negotiatiable, but just how you travel is negotiable, and small changes can make a big impact on the envirornment — and also save the green in your wallet.  

These tips on making your getaway more green from no less an authority than the Union of Concerned Scientists

Flying – First class, business class and economy-plus can double the   carbon footprint of an airplane.  The airlines and aircraft that are the most green are the ones with the most seats.  The cheap seats are not the most comfortable, but they are the most green.  Also,  newer, narrow-body planes are up to 34 percent more energy efficient than older models. So if you are committed to flying green, choose an airline with a newer, more energy efficient fleet.

Flying vs. Driving — If you are traveling alone or with just one other person on a trip 500 miles or more, flying direct in coach produces fewer carbon emissions than driving.

Hop on the Bus — Compared with flying coach, the Union of Concerned Scientists says bus travel cut’s your carbon footprint by 55 percent  to 75 percent, depending on distance travelled.  New companies like Megabus and old reliables like Greyhound are adding new routes and new perks like wi-fi, so it’s definitely worth taking another look at bus travel.