Savvy Tips For Flying "Greener"
Flying has revolutionized the way we humans travel by providing faster, cheaper, and more comfortable ways to reach destinations. Really, flying made visiting the whole world attainable. And now, since the first passenger flight that took place in 1914, more people are traveling via aircraft than ever before, and for good reason. Flying allows us to visit loved ones, learn about different cultures, get essential items to remote locations, and so much more.
However, commercial airline travel has not come without its costs. According to the International Council on Clean Transportation, commercial aviation accounted for 2.4% of the global total CO2 emissions. This is a 32% increase over the past five years and is expected to continue to increase. More bad news - it’s not just the amount of greenhouse gasses that flying emits, but also where they release them. Non-profit organization David Suzuki Foundation states that, “because aircraft emissions are released high in the atmosphere, they have a potent climate impact, triggering chemical reactions and atmospheric effects that heat the planet.”
That being so, I believe there are savvy choices you can make when flying, and it doesn’t mean you need to do like Greta Thunberg (we 💚💚💚 her btw) and give up flying altogether. After alI, if you’re like me, not flying is simply just not an option for various reasons. Which is why the last thing I want to do here at 24 Savvy is contribute to flygskam. Wait, don’t tell me you don’t know what that means! Don’t worry, I didn’t either, but when I discovered this term I 💯 related. Coined by the Swedish, flygskam is a term that essentially means being ashamed or guilty about flying. That is why I am sharing with you some savvy tips to make flying more eco-friendly when you do.
Avoid layovers
This one is a bit of a no brainer. The less flights you take, the less carbon emissions are emitted. And to be fair, this doesn’t only apply to traveling by air. The least amount of time spent in any mode of transportation, the less amount of fuel you burn. So choosing the most direct route is the way to go! Oh and did I mention already it’s savvy to save time and maximize your moments at the destination you are trying to reach. But your savvy self knew that already, didn’t you? 😉
Choose the plane, not the airline…
The older the plane, the less efficient and heavier it is. Both of which equivicate to more fuel needed to operate. SO, when selecting flights, don’t limit yourself to one airline. Also take into consideration the actual airplane you will be flying on.
…but also choose the airline
Ok, ok I know. This is a bit counterintuitive from what I just said. But you also should consider the airline because certain airlines are more sustainable by using biofuels, offering offsets, taking more direct routes, and having newer technoogy and more up-to-date, efficient equipment. So if you can find the best combo of airline and airplane, that is the savvy ideal.
Seat selection matters
Alright, I know we all would prefer living that first-class/business-class life. Trust, me too. Free champagne and lounge seats bigger than your living room chair anyone? Unfortunately, flying fancier means a bigger carbon footprint. The reason is ✨science✨. Economy classes means more space. More space means taking up more room and adding more weight. The more space or weight you take up, the more fuel is needed, which equals more CO2 emissions. That’s physics people.
Pack lighter
Like we alluded to above, the lighter the plane, the less fuel is required. You may not think that 5 pounds extra in your suitcase matters, but it does! So when your packing, really try to consider what you are going to where and don’t overpack. If everyone did the same it could have a significant impact.
Utilize resources
There are many resources out there to help you when selecting what flight is the “greenest” for your needs, but we love FlyGRN for finding tips on sustainable travel. Not only do they let you compare prices, they offer offsets with the revenue they generate. In addition, through FlyGRN, they provide options for train transportation alternatives and will even offset your travel retroactively.
Forego the ways of boarding pass’ past
This one is simple… DON’T print your boarding pass. The majority of airlines offer e-boarding passes and avoiding printing is a simple and much more convenient way of flying more eco-friendly. If the airline doesn’t offer e-passes, consider choosing a different airline. And don’t worry Boomers, if you need help figuring this one out your 24 Savvy girl is here! Just drop a comment below and I’ve got you.
Consider alternative transportation
Lastly, ask yourself, “do I really need to fly?” Do you have the opportunity, time, finances, ect. to take an alternative form of greener transportation? For example, if you are traveling a shorter distance and a train option is available, choose that! While it might take a bit longer, there are also other benefits than helping the environment, like great scenery and (tell me I’m wrong) a nostalgic yet calming vibe.
I know it might seem daunting, but I want you to not succumb to flygskam. I hope you have a better insight into what will help you fly in the future, only the SAVVY way.
Let me know in the comments what your favorite and least favorite thing about flying is!
Stay savvy 💞
