Tourism is responsible for around 8% of the world’s carbon emissions, with transportation contributing to half of that amount. For example, a trip from Europe to Asia is anything but low-carbon. A business-class flight from Frankfurt International Airport to Tokyo Narita International Airport can generate 2.4 tons of CO2, which is massive.
The good news is that you can set up the grounds for greener travel without making exhaustive compromises to your comfort. It takes a few thoughtful choices here and there, and you’ll be one step closer to protecting the environment you live in while having fun.
The Main Pollutants While Traveling
Realistically, all humans have an environmental impact because we require resources from the ecosystem. However, the way we move, sleep, and consume can significantly influence these emissions. Here are the main drivers:
- Transport: Flying is one of the most carbon-intensive means of transportation, but combustion-powered cars also release high levels of greenhouse gases.
- Lodging: High-end accommodations run with heavy lighting, intensive climate control, and excessive water use.
- Food and drinks: Food production leaves a big footprint, and China generates the largest volume of plastic waste due to its bottled water consumption.
Most tourist activities create emissions and waste through energy use, transportation, and infrastructure. This puts pressure on an ecosystem that’s already becoming fragile.
Tips for Traveling Green to Asia
Traveling green from Europe to Asia should not be complex or sacrifice your comfort and joy. Below are a few tips to make it more accessible:
Choose More Efficient Flight Routes
The first thing you should do when traveling between Europe and Asia is to look beyond the ticket price. Although if you’re curious “do tickets cost more in my location?” The answer might surprise you. Luckily, nothing a VPN cannot solve. That said, to make your travels greener, choose a non-stop flight when possible or if it’s practical.
Planes release most of the carbon during take-off, so it’s better to book a direct flight instead of one with many layovers. It can be more practical to fly into a major gateway that has a good rail connection, such as Tokyo, Beijing, or Singapore, as you can continue the trip by train. Countries like China, South Korea, or Japan have extensive high-speed networks, reducing reliance on short-haul flights.
Also, choose a flight that uses modern aircraft. For example, planes such as the Boeing 787-9 were made to reduce fuel consumption by roughly 25-28%. Some eco-minded airlines with modern fleets include KLM and Singapore Airlines.
Go for strategic offsetting
Carbon offsetting lets you invest in a project that reduces or removes CO2 in a different area. For example, you could look for offsets that invest in methane reduction and renewable energy.
It’s recommended that you look for Verified Carbon Standard (VCS) or Gold Standard certifications. It’s also worth checking if your carrier invests in Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), which reduces GHG emissions by up to 80%.
Pack mindfully and lightly
The heavier your luggage, the more fuel it takes to transport it. Backpacking is popular in places such as Southeast Asia, as it takes fewer resources to move around. Traveling light also makes it easier to rely on the railway systems in different Asian countries.
Consider packing a capsule wardrobe including versatile, quick-drying clothes that don’t wrinkle fast. A good portion of Asia is in a tropical area, and in Southeast states like Thailand, the temperatures can go up to 32 degrees Celsius in December. Even if it’s below freezing in Europe, you’ll only need a few lightweight layers in Asia that you can wash in the sink.
Reduce single-use waste
Traveling creates a lot of single-use waste because it’s easier to buy a bottle of water or use plastic cutlery than to bring your own. However, packing a reusable water bottle, a portable filter, and a bamboo/stainless-steel utensil set in a cloth tote bag reduces unnecessary plastic use. Plus, it doesn’t take up that much space in your luggage.
You should also skip buying a local physical SIM card and switch to eSIM when possible. Even if the SIM is a small plastic piece, manufacturing it leads to more carbon emissions, and it also creates plastic pollution. So, the digital version is more eco-friendly. For example, if you’re heading to Vietnam, get the best eSIM for Vietnam, or even one for Asia in case you’re visiting a couple countries.
You can apply this principle anywhere else, including downloading your boarding pass or ticket instead of printing it.
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Europe to Asia doesn’t have to be about making the perfect itinerary or buying the most expensive just-in-case products or services. It’s about avoiding unnecessary fuel consumption and waste while having a good time. Be mindful of your routes, pack only what you use, and consider going for eSIMs and reusable essentials instead of repeatedly purchasing new ones.
