Joan Ruddock, Minister for climate change
For anyone planning a summer holiday there are lots of easy ways of minimising the impact on climate change so that you don’t have to feel guilty about having far-flung fun in the sun.
There are several ways to make your summer break environmentally friendly, and it doesn’t cost the Earth either, here are some of the ways you can minimise your carbon footprint, before, during and after your stay.
Before you go
First of all, don’t overlook the potential to holiday in the UK, you can explore some of the areas of outstanding natural beauty, blue flag beaches and historic buildings that good old Blighty has to offer.
Wherever you do choose to stay, try and find 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.
When you do set off on your travels, consider taking public transport rather than driving to the airport and also, 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 and have a little extra money to spare, one choice is to offset the carbon emissions your trip generates by paying for projects which reduce emissions elsewhere.
While you’re there
Whilst your gone, turn your home supply of hot water and heating off as it will save you will save energy and money, after all, there’s no point in heating an empty house.
Try not to abandon your good habits just because you’re on holiday – remember to switch off air-conditioning, appliances and lights as you would at home. You can also help the local economy by buying food, drink and souvenirs which are produced locally and in season. This will help reduce the carbon emissions associated with transport.
Also, do 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! However, if you do need to hire a car, 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 and never throw away holiday clothes, you wouldn’t throw out a dress just because you’d worn it a few times would you? You can always use them again the following year as it’s highly doubtful you’ll meet the same people again, and if you do, they probably wouldn’t notice your repeated outfit!
But if you really enjoy buying a completely new beach wardrobe every year then give your old things to a charity shop instead.
FemaleFirst - Ruth Harrison
For more information on how to reduce your carbon emissions as well as to calculate your carbon footprint, visit www.direct.gov.uk/actonco2