1. Volunteer with a sustainable travel company
Schedule a green vacation with a company like Earthwatch so you can couple exploration with giving back to the community. The company pairs you up with scientists who are studying different types of animals in their respective habitats. Unfortunately you still have to pay for the trip, and costs range from $950 to $2,650 (includes meals and showers) for trips ranging from 2-17 days.
2.Carbon offset your trip
Many green tour companies support a number of carbon offsetting projects. Carbon offsetting refers to the act of reducing the gas emissions that are produced from a travel activity such as driving or flying. You can essentially purchase an offset (such as funding solar and wind energy, supporting tree plantings, etc) to compensate for your emissions. Many sites have mileage calculators to help you figure out how much damage your trip is doing to the environment. Travelocity is the first major online travel company to offer such services.
3. Stay at a green hotel
Lots of hotels and resorts are placing an emphasis on the environment and 'going green.' This goes beyond their general recycling policies and may involve energy strategies, sourcing local products and labor, and overall carbon emissions. The Kimpton hotel group is probably the most well-known green hotel chain.
4. Take an eco trip
There are a bunch of companies, such as GAP Adventures, that specialize in providing a greener way to see places all over the world. These tours obviously take place on a bike or on foot, and usually focus on smaller groups (for less impact on the environment) and green lodging. They also provide a great way to learn about indigenous cultures and connect with the local cultures and people.
Boulder, here we come!!!!
