Green Travel
What exactly is Green Travel? Does it mean sleeping in a tree-house in Thailand or canoeing down the Amazon? There are many forms of Green Travel ranging from eco-adventures to comfortable hotels in big cities or small villages. Green Travel really means having awareness and making an effort to preserve and protect the natural and cultural environment of the place you’re visiting.
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t necessarily have to pay more in order to travel green. While offsetting the carbon emissions from your air travel will set you back a negligible amount you can find green lodging options in all budgets, from hostels to luxury hotels. And earth-friendly transportation options like biking, walking and taking public transit are often cheaper than taking a cab or renting a car.
There are many Green Travel options available for every budget and lifestyle. Living the Green Life is easier than you think.
Here are some Green Life tips to Green Travel:
- Before leaving home, unplug all appliances, turn the thermostat down, and set your water heater to the lowest setting.
- Purchase electronic tickets when booking your flight.
- Enjoy walking tours and use public transportation.
- Participate in the hotel linen program. Use towels twice and request that your sheets not be changed daily.
- Eat food that’s both grown and prepared locally.
- Use only a digital camera. Disposable cameras are wasteful and expensive.
- Stay at hotels that openly support green initiatives.
Learn about the ASTA Green Program:
The ASTA Green Program is sponsored by the following organizations:
Global Sponsor - Travelport
Industry Green Leader - Avis/Budget Group, Marriott
Rail Sponsor - Amtrak
Green Supporter - American Cruise Lines
Become an ASTA Green Member
ASTA believes that through our membership and staff we can “change the world” for the better. We have developed the ASTA Green Program to facilitate the understanding and use of green travel options in our industry as well as assist our members in “greening” their own operations.
Benefits of Green Membership Participation:
* Education on the Green Travel Market
* Checklists for “greening” internal operations
* Updated versions of the ASTA Green Report (emailed directly to you)
* Green Member Logo to display on your marketing pieces and your Web site
* Monthly ASTA eTips newsletter on green travel and green business operations
Program Details and Other Opportunities
ASTA Green Program for Travel Agents
ASTA Green Program for Travel Suppliers
View a sample of the ASTA Green Guide.
Sponsorship of ASTA’s Green Program
ASTA’s Own Green Program