Traveling one mile alone in an airplane creates approximately 2.5 times more CO2 emissions than driving a car. Though it may be necessary to fly for many reasons, there are several ways to make your travel more sustainable.
When it comes to air travel, there are a lot of things to consider; Cost, timing, convenience – but what about sustainability? Many people don’t think about how their mode of transportation affects the environment, but air travel has a big carbon footprint. Even if you are only traveling locally, the environmental impact of your trip is greater when taking into account how much pollution is created by planes or cars.
Here are 5 reasons why you need to go for sustainable air travel:
1. Fuel-efficient
Airlines have been taking steps to reduce the impact of air travel on the environment. With new technology, aircraft are being developed with improved fuel efficiency in mind. In other words, sustainable air travel is more fuel-efficient. This is great for preserving fossil fuels , as well as the environment.
2. Reduces Carbon Emissions
When it comes to flying, greenhouse gas emissions are a major concern because these contribute to climate change. However, sustainable air travel helps reduce or offset carbon emissions from aircraft by up to 80 percent according to a recent study conducted by scientists at Purdue University and Stanford University . The methodology of the research was validated by independent experts at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Pasadena, California .
3. Cuts Down On Greenhouse Gases
In addition to cutting down on carbon emissions from the use of fossil fuels, sustainable air travel also reduces greenhouse gases because it uses renewable resources such as solar and wind power. Even though planes fly high in the sky, they can be powered by renewable resources; this helps them lessen their environmental impact.
4. Minimizes Noise Pollution
Noise is one of the most common complaints being aired about airports today. A lot of this has been attributed to excessive use of jetliners with older engines known for their noisy operation above ground level. In fact, every time you hear the noise of a jet engine, it is an indication that most certainly harmful gases are being emitted into the atmosphere.
5. Makes For Efficient Operation Of Airports
Aircrafts which are powered by renewable resources are preferred in airports with noise barriers built around them because they operate smoothly and do not cause noise pollution during takeoff or landing. This allows these airports to be more functional since there will be less pressure put on its management to reduce exposure times when certain types of aircrafts are in use.
6. Good For Health
Beside the other obvious benefits, such as the fact that it decreases the emissions of greenhouse gases and other harmful pollutants, sustainable air travel can contribute to better health conditions for individuals. This is because by avoiding certain toxic substances, people are not at risk of getting cancer or developing respiratory problems due to long-term exposure.
7. Supports Environmental Conservation
Airports working towards a more sustainable approach in the way they do business tend to promote recycling programs within their vicinity, thus reducing waste levels and promoting environmental awareness among local communities. In addition to this, sustainable airports also help in creating jobs that will increase opportunities for future generations while minimizing harm done to wildlife by cutting down on carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere.
8. Sustainable Air Travel Contributes To Economic Growth
Sustainable air travel can create more jobs and improve the economy in a number of ways. The research being done in obtaining cost effective fuel has created jobs within the field of sustainable aviation while also improving resources available to consumers. In addition to this, airports play a huge role in increasing tourism and creating business opportunities that can be used by both individuals and companies.
Sustainable travel is the way of the future. By reducing your carbon emissions and greenhouse gases, you are doing your part to make sure that our planet stays healthy for generations to come. Not only is sustainable travel more cost effective and fuel efficient– it’s also great for your health! Who knew that making small changes in your lifestyle could have such a big impact? We hope you feel inspired to start traveling sustainably and see just how wonderful the world can be when we work together to protect our environment.