Changes for 2020: Offsetting Emissions

As the environmental impact of flying has become more and more evident, I have decided to make a major change to my travel routine. From now on, I will offset all emissions from my flights and avoid flying whenever possible. 

For instance, the days of the 40-minute long hop from DC to New York are over for me and I will take the train instead. (In many circumstances, the train can be more painless and cheaper as you get free WiFi on Amtrak and it takes you right from downtown DC to downtown Manhattan.) 

However, it isn’t feasible to take a train across an ocean or even across the country, which is when I will carbon offset my flights. Many airlines, like Alaska, United, Delta, JetBlue, Air Canada, Lufthansa, and more, offer services to carbon offset through their own websites. Other websites like Gold Standard, Green-e, and Climate Action Reserve all offer certified programs to donate to as well. 

I love to travel and I want to keep doing it for as long as I possibly can. However, we need to consider the environmental impact of our vacations and trips, in addition to whatever monetary cost. The Earth is a wonderful place to explore and I don’t mind spending a few extra dollars if that means I can protect it. I hope you will too.