In 2025, many people are looking to reduce their environmental impact. There are many areas of life where positive changes can be made, but few will be as impactful as travel. Travel is a huge contributing factor to environmental damage, but there are a few adjustments you can make to your travel habits when exploring the UK and beyond. Interested? Keep reading to find out how to travel more sustainably in 2025.
Choose Greener Modes of Transport
First, you should choose greener modes of transport. Instead of driving or flying, opt for low-emission transport methods like trains, coaches, cycling, and walking. In the UK, initiatives like Active Travel England are promoting walking and cycling as primary modes of transport. In addition to reducing your impact, this can also help you save a lot of money, not to mention the physical and mental health benefits of exercise and time outdoors. These methods can also allow you to explore places at a slower pace and immerse yourself in the area.
Often, driving is the most realistic and convenient way to travel. Purchasing a used car can be a more sustainable choice compared to buying a new vehicle, as it extends the life of existing resources and reduces demand for new manufacturing. Additionally, the Good Journey Initiative offers discounts to travellers who arrive at attractions car-free, encouraging the use of public transport.
Stay at Eco-Friendly Accommodations
Another important consideration is where you decide to stay. Instead of booking the first hotel you find, look into places that have strong environmental credentials and support sustainable tourism. Look for places certified by schemes like Green Tourism or Green Key. Accommodations that pride themselves on sustainability often use renewable energy, minimise waste, and source local and organic food. This can have a big impact on your overall carbon footprint when travelling.
Offset Your Carbon Emissions
While reducing emissions is ideal, offsetting unavoidable emissions is another positive step to take. Programs like the UK’s implementation of the UN’s Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme for International Aviation (CORSIA) aim to mitigate the environmental impact of air travel. This allows you to travel the world and fly to different countries, and offset the resulting emissions by supporting positive initiatives, such as reforestation projects.
If you want to minimise your impact on the planet while exploring the world, the advice in this post should be useful. Travel can have a significant impact on the environment, but there are both big and small adjustments that travellers can make to reduce their impact and protect the planet.
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