Green Travel

There are many things you can do be ecologically responsible while abroad, and reduce the impact you leave on the places you visit.

While Living Abroad

• Keep your showers very short
• Minimize your use of electricity
• Turn off air conditioning, heat, television, and lights when leaving your room
• Reuse your sheets and towels several times before washing
• Carry a reusable water bottle
• Bring cloth shopping bags to the grocery store. (In many countries, plastic shopping bags are banned because of their environmental footprint!)
• Buy from local farmers and markets
• Use a digital camera instead of a disposable one
• Exercise caution when buying items made from plants or animals. In some countries, souvenirs are made from endangered species (i.e. shells, ivory, animal skins, feathers, bushmeat)
• Use public transportation. Consider buying a train/rail pass. Many countries have excellent train and subway systems that make traveling inexpensive and convenient

Traveling While Abroad

• Turn your water heater to the lowest setting
• Turn off your water from the outside
• Unplug all electronics and appliances
• Turn off the icemaker
• Reuse your sheets and towels at hostels and hotels (or notify room service that they don't need to be changed)

Resources

• STA Travel, a student travel agency, features an excellent Guide to Green Travel
• MSNBC's "Green Travel Tips"