Going green - or finding ways to be environmentally conscious - is becoming the “in” way to live.  Many people are turning to hybrid transportation (or giving up the car altogether and taking public transportation).  People are learning to recycle and to compost.  It is also possible to travel on vacation or on a business trip in “green” style.

1    Many cities have become more pedestrian friendly.  When you travel to your destination, see if biking or walking are encouraged for getting around.  Cities that have expansive bike trails or just lean towards pedestrian use often have a place for you to rent a bike during your stay.  Check out the local regulations concerning safety rules and equipment before you peddle on your way.
2    Choose a “Green” Hotel that is concerned about the environment as well.  These hotels have programs that will help save water and energy and also reduce waste.  Many of them also work hard to save you money as well by providing reasonable rates.
3    The little things do count.  Treat your hotel just like you would at home.  Turn off the lights when you aren’t in the room.  Turn down the heat just a little (or turn up the air conditioning).  Cut down the length of the shower.  Let the hotel staff know that you don’t need fresh linens and cups each day.
4    If you are unable to locate “green” accommodations in the area you are traveling then be sure to write a note to the management where you are staying.  Let them know of your concern for the environment and also leave them the website of the “Green” Hotels.  The travel industry is very sensitive to the suggestions given out by their customers – particularly those that take the time to write out those suggestions.
5    Leave the paper at home.  Use electronic bills or tickets as much as you can.  Some hotels even let you use the internet or television to check you bill and to check out.  Every little bit helps when it comes to protecting the environment.

There are a number of ways to go “green” even when you have to go on the road.  Be aware of what you are doing and keep the same habits away from home that you keep at home.  Do some research to find companies and accommodations that are “green” conscious and do business with those companies.  If everyone does a little then it will make a big impact for all.

Tags: , green travel, sustainable travel

This entry was posted on Thursday, August 14th, 2008 at 4:40 pm and is filed under Travel Planning, Travel Tips. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.