A Guide to Staying Sustainable and Cosy while Flying Habits
Embarking on a journey by air can be an exhilarating experience, but it often comes with its share of environmental concerns. The good news is that there are simple yet impactful ways to minimise your ecological footprint while soaring through the skies for eco-friendly air travel. In this journal post, we’ll explore a comprehensive guide to sustainable flying habits that not only make your travels more cosy and comfortable but also contribute to a greener planet. Remember flying itself has a big impact on the environment, so try to always to see if there is a eco alternative first for your journey like train travel.
Refill and avoid contributing to Landfills
One of the most straightforward steps towards sustainable air travel is carrying a reusable water bottle. Before boarding, seize the opportunity to fill up at the airport, avoiding the need to purchase plastic single-use bottles during your flight. This simple act not only reduces plastic waste but also keeps you hydrated without contributing to environmental degradation.
Sock Up for Comfort and Warmth
Comfort is key during air travel, and a small but effective sustainability hack is to pack an extra pair (or two) of socks. Beyond providing warmth during chilly moments on the plane, having spare socks also eliminates the temptation to use the disposable ones offered on some flights. It’s a win-win for comfort and sustainability.
Cutlery Freedom: Bring Your Own
Airline cutlery is often single-use plastic, contributing to the massive plastic waste problem. To counter this, make it a habit to carry your own reusable cutlery. While not all airlines offer sustainable alternatives, your personal set ensures you can enjoy your in-flight meals without guilt or environmental impact.
Tune In Sustainably: Bring Your Own Headphones
For those who love to tune in to in-flight entertainment, packing your own headphones is a game-changer. Not only does this enhance your listening experience, but it also eliminates the need to purchase headphones on the plane – a common practice that generates unnecessary waste. Bringing your own headphones is a small act with a significant impact on reducing in-flight waste.
Snack Smart: Bring Your Own Sustainable Treats
Plane snacks are a travel essential, but the packaging they come in often contributes to environmental pollution. Combat this by bringing your own snacks in reusable or biodegradable packaging. Whether it’s a trail mix in a reusable container or fruits in a biodegradable bag, your snacks can be both delicious and environmentally responsible.
Plan Ahead: The Key to Eco-Friendly Air Travel
Incorporating these sustainable flying habits into your travel routine requires a bit of planning. Before your flight, take a moment to consider what eco-friendly choices you can make. Pack your reusable items, choose sustainable snacks, and set the intention to minimize your impact on the environment.
Educate and Advocate: Share the Knowledge
The journey towards sustainable air travel isn’t just an individual endeavour; it’s a collective effort. Take the opportunity to educate fellow travellers on the positive impact of small changes. Share your sustainable habits, encourage others to bring their reusable items, and collectively contribute to a more conscious travel community.
Soaring High with Sustainability
As you embark on your next airborne adventure, remember that sustainability can be seamlessly woven into your travel routine. By adopting eco-friendly habits like carrying reusable items, bringing your own snacks, and minimizing in-flight waste, you become a part of the solution to make air travel more sustainable. The sky’s the limit, and with conscious choices, your journey can be both thrilling and environmentally responsible. Here’s to soaring high with sustainability, one eco-friendly flight at a time!
If you would like to read more about how The Grumpy Whale is committed to sustainability please check out our Sustainability Policy. Did you know that in November 2023 the World’s first transatlantic flight on 100% sustainable aviation fuel took off? Read more about it here.
