Refinishing Resource: Green travel tips

The holidays are gaining momentum to full swing. With it come those who are planning to travel to see friends and loved ones. It’s one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and because of that, increased carbon emissions are going to continue to be a large concern. For our refinishing resource this month, we want to pass along some green travel tips so wherever you go this holiday season, you do so responsibly.

1. Be prepared. No matter where you’re going, remember to pack properly and completely. It’s happened to all of us where we begin a trip only to realize we left someone’s laptop or bag behind. Ensuring you’re ready to go when you begin your trip saves not only time but reduces any potential emissions that come from extra trips to pick up what was left behind.

2. Be efficient. If driving is in your future, be sure to rent or use your car efficiently. High MPG cars reduce carbon emissions obviously, but little things such as not charging portable electronics off the car battery and keeping windows up (it’s likely to be cold anyway, so why would the windows be down?) are two ways to improve your car’s efficiency and get the most mileage per tank.

3. Consider alternatives. Not everyone can drive to their holiday destination. If you must travel long distances, consider alternate modes whenever possible. A train ride, while longer, is the scenic route and overall an environmentally safer alternative to cars and planes. When flights are the only option, it’s the little things that add up. Packing lighter, using electronic tickets instead of paper and taking public transportation to the airport are all ways to lessen the emissions and the strain on our environment while getting to where you need to go.

4. Book green hotels. Finally, if you and/or your family are staying in a hotel, be sure to support those that support sustainable initiatives – there are many to choose from. Additionally, work on reducing energy use while you are a guest – switch your lights off when you’re out, re-use your towels wherever reasonable, and unplug chargers when you’re not using them.

We hope that no matter where you’re traveling, you do so safely and efficiently.