World Of Wanderlust

These days, more and more people are becoming environmentally conscious and adopting sustainable lifestyles to help create a greener planet. This shift is also happening in the travel industry, leading to the rise of the concept known as “sustainable travel.” This kind of travel allows people to experience the wonders of the world while contributing positively to the environment. Europe, in particular, is becoming increasingly popular as an eco-friendly destination, catering to travelers who want to minimize their environmental impact.

How to Travel Europe Sustainably

Traveling through Europe as an eco-friendly traveler is easier than you might think. The continent has a wealth of sustainable resources available, from transportation options to detailed itineraries. Here are a few tips to make your European trip more sustainable.

Choose Trains over Flights

One effective way to reduce your carbon footprint is by selecting trains instead of flights. The aviation industry is responsible for about 2-3% of global carbon emissions, making it one of the largest contributors to a person’s carbon footprint. In contrast, trains are a more eco-friendly option. By choosing rail travel, you can cut your carbon emissions by half, approximately 41 grams per person. Even though some trains run on diesel, they still have a lower carbon footprint per passenger compared to airplanes because they can accommodate many more people. Europe is well-equipped with low-carbon and comfortable trains, such as the Eurail, which is highly promoted for inter-country travel across the European Union.

Getting Around by Bicycles

If you want to explore a European city in an engaging and eco-friendly way, consider cycling. Biking not only helps you soak up the local atmosphere but also saves you a lot on carbon emissions. Bicycles produce significantly less carbon compared to motorcycles, cars, or even buses. Additionally, cycling has no negative impact on air quality as it emits no harmful byproducts. It’s also an economical and healthy way to travel. Since 2009, the European Commission has promoted cycling routes, making cities like Amsterdam, Copenhagen, and Antwerp particularly bike-friendly.

Get on Public Transportation

Public transportation is another excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint and travel sustainably. The transportation sector accounts for 90% of fossil fuel use and contributes around 27% of total annual greenhouse gas emissions. However, public transport can save around 45% of carbon emissions annually because it allows many people to travel together, utilizing energy more efficiently.

Bring Your Own Bottle

One simple yet effective way to cut down on single-use plastic is to bring a reusable water bottle. Many European countries offer drinking fountains where you can refill your bottle, saving money and reducing plastic waste.

Be Mindful of Your Energy Usage

Electricity is a major contributor to climate change, as 40% of fossil fuels burned for electricity release significant carbon emissions. Be conscious of your energy consumption by turning off unnecessary electronics and lights, especially when you leave your accommodation.

Choose Sustainable Destinations and Activities

Selecting eco-friendly destinations and activities can significantly impact how sustainable your travel is. Europe offers plenty of sustainable options, from national parks and conservation centers to green cities like Stockholm and Helsinki. Consider engaging in activities like short-term volunteering for environmental projects or enjoying locally-sourced food.

Stay in Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Accommodation

Choosing eco-friendly accommodations allows you to enjoy a comfortable stay while supporting local economies and protecting the environment. Sustainable hotels, lodges, and guest houses practice reducing waste, avoiding food waste, and using renewable energy sources. Options range from solar-powered hotels to luxurious sustainable stays in places like Vila Vita Park in Portugal and Borgo Pignano in Italy.

Travel in a Group

Group travel is one of the best ways to travel sustainably. Sharing resources like accommodation, food, and transportation can significantly lower your collective carbon footprint. Traveling in a group is also a great way to have unforgettable experiences.

Europe is an excellent starting point for your sustainable travel journey. The continent offers everything from green cities to ways to reduce waste, making it easy for travelers to adopt eco-friendly practices. Ready to explore Europe sustainably? Traveling in a group with JoinMyTrip can further reduce your carbon footprint and provide you with amazing travel experiences. So, why wait? Start planning your sustainable European adventure today!