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ECO TRAVEL_TIPS_2
There are so many ways you can reduce your emissions and carbon footprint, and save money, by modifying some of your everyday behaviors. The added benefit: relying less on your vehicle often means you're getting more exercise and living a healthier lifestyle! Hint: some of these tips could be implemented school wide and used as application material for a Green in Action award!  




  • Take a train instead of flying
  • Take public transportation
  • Bike to school or work whenever possible
  • Drive the speed limit - fuel economy decreases above 60 mph. Driving 5mph over 60 mph is like paying an extra 24 cents per gallon.
  • Carpool to school or work if biking or walking is not an option
  • Use cruise control as much as possible - maintaining a consistent RPM reduces fuel consumption. Mileage can increase by up to 7 percent!
  • Keep tires inflated to the recommended level and improve fuel economy by up to 3.3 percent
  • Avoid excessive idling
  • Use a carwash that participates in the WaterSavers program
  • Remove excess weight from your car to increase fuel economy
  • Substitute or eliminate a food item that is shipped from overseas. Check your produce for a Country of Original Label before buying.
  • Use a clean diesel vehicle for group trips - according to the EPA, clean diesel vehicles produce 90 percent fewer emissions than regular diesel engines.
  • Take the stairs instead of an elevator when climbing a few flights
  • Avoid quick acceleration and heavy braking - it can reduce fuel economy by 33 percent on the highway
  • Walk or bike when doing errands around town
  • Plan your errands so you can get them done all in one trip rather than multiple short trips
  • Maintain your vehicle - a poorly maintained engine doesn't run as efficiently as it could
  • Consider purchasing a more fuel efficient or hybrid vehicle 
  • Reduce your leisure air travel to one trip per year or less
  • Sell your vehicle and sign up for a car-sharing program
  • Drive instead of flying if the trip is less than 400 miles
  • If you must fly, purchase non-stop flights - jets burn the most fuel at takeoff and flying direct avoids excess distance covered
  • Work from home when you can

When you're on the road:

  • Use public transportation or share a cab
  • Eat vegetarian
  • Remove your shoes before coming inside to avoid tracking pesticides and other residue into your home
  • Don't purchase food and drinks that are served in styrofoam
  • Look for a hybrid or electric cab if you need to use one
  • Seek out a hotel with greening strategies in place or a green building certification
  • Seek out a locally sourced restaurant 
  • Use the revolving door option whenever it's available - revolving doors prevent up to 18 percent of building heat loss
  • Always reuse your hotel's sheets and towels