As we grow more mindful of our environmental impact, every small action counts—especially when we travel. Whether you're flying across the globe or exploring a new city, making sustainable choices can help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet. Here are some practical, eco-friendly travel tips to adopt before, during, and after your flight to become a more sustainable traveller.
Before and during flight
1. Book direct
Choosing direct flights reduces the number of take-offs and landings, which in turn cuts down on fuel consumption and emissions. It’s an efficient, climate-conscious way to fly.
2. Support climate projects
Consider donating to carbon removal projects or sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) initiatives to reduce the impact of your travel.
3. Pack light
Carrying just 1kg less in luggage can save approximately 30,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually if adopted widely. A lighter load means a greener flight, so pack mindfully!
4. Choose eco-friendly airport transport
Opt for public transportation or car-sharing to reach the airport, reducing both emissions and traffic congestion.
5. Go digital
Opt for digital boarding to save paper.
6. Decline unwanted food
Skip in-flight meals if you're not hungry to help reduce food waste on flights, which saves resources and helps manage waste more sustainably.
7. Bring your own cup
British Airways offers a 50p discount on hot drinks on short-haul flights when you bring your own cup onboard.
8. Bring a reusable water bottle
With many airports now offering refill stations and flight attendants willing to help, carrying a refillable bottle is an easy way to reduce plastic waste.
9. Take Care of reusable items
Keep paper menus in good condition for reuse, and leave headphones or amenity kits on your seat for recycling. These simple actions help British Airways manage resources more sustainably.
10. Save blankets for those who need them
If you’re unlikely to use the provided blanket, leave it wrapped. This reduces unnecessary washing, conserving water and energy.
At your destination
When you reach your destination, sustainable choices can continue to have a positive impact. Here’s how:
1. Switch off and unplug appliances
Conserve energy by switching off and unplugging any appliances when not in use. This small action reduces unnecessary power consumption in hotels and rental properties.
2. Use air conditioning wisely
Turn off the air conditioning when you’re not in the room, and consider keeping it off overnight. It not only conserves energy but also helps you adjust to the local climate.
3. Reuse towels and be water conscious
Opting to reuse towels instead of requesting new ones daily conserves water and reduces laundry-related energy use.
4. Learn local recycling practices
Familiarise yourself with recycling practices in the area. Sorting your waste correctly helps reduce pollution and supports local recycling efforts.
5. Eat local, buy seasonal
Enjoy locally sourced, seasonal foods to reduce food miles and support local economies. It’s a great way to experience authentic cuisine while minimising environmental impact.
6. Carry a refillable water bottle
Where safe, carry a refillable water bottle, which can save money and prevent the use of single-use plastic bottles.
By incorporating these simple tips, you can make your travel experience more sustainable from take-off to check-out. Small changes add up, creating a collective impact that benefits both the environment and the communities we visit. Next time you travel, make a conscious effort to follow these tips and be part of a greener, more sustainable world. Safe travels!
