T+L’s 10 Tips for Traveling Green
Our itinerant staffers know it’s not always easy to travel with minimal impact. Here, 10 of our favorite ways to do it.
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- “A significant percentage of a plane’s carbon emissions come from takeoff and landing. So book nonstop flights whenever possible.” Clara Sedlak, Associate Editor
- “I like to know the best resources for green living, from artisanal shops to public parks. Try downloading a list from greenmap.org. It has more than 100 city maps that highlight the top spots.” Mario Mercado, Arts Editor
- “I make a practice of booking flights with airlines that recycle waste from food and beverages. Southwest Airlines, for example, recycles cabin waste and was the first to offer a system-wide electronic ticketing program.” Stirling Kelso, Assistant Editor
- “Staying at working farms that also function as inns helps travelers connect with an area’s agricultural heritage. Plus, they tend to cost less than hotels.” Meeghan Truelove, Assistant Managing Editor
- “Eating locally is one of the best ways to support a community. I try to shop at farmers’ markets and dine at restaurants with locally sourced ingredients.” Search venues in your destination at localharvest.org and eatwellguide.org. Clark Mitchell, Associate Editor
- “A plastic bottle often travels thousands of miles before you buy it, so I carry a reusable container or drink locally sourced water when I’m on the go.” Amy Farley, Senior Editor
- “I always seek out stores that carry local fashion designers. It helps support the community, and I discover gems that I would never find anywhere else.” Laura Begley, Deputy Editor
- “If I can, I bring my bike and ride instead of taking taxis or the subway.” Katharine Van Itallie, Art Director
- “I’ll choose a four-hour train ride over a one-hour flight any time I can; it usually costs less, the seats are more comfortable, and there’s scenery out there.” Alice Gordon, Features Director
- “Walking tours are low-impact and inexpensive, and help you get to know a place on a more intimate level.” Audiblejourney.com lists more than 300 tours in the United States and abroad. Laura Teusink, Associate Managing Editor