I recently embarked on an unforgettable journey to Sabah, Kundasang, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of amazing! 😍 🇲🇾 From the familiar streets of Singapore's Changi Airport to the lush green landscapes of Kota Kinabalu and the serene beauty of Kundasang, this trip was a true gem (and a much needed one away from home too!). However, something shocking awaited me when I decided to calculate my carbon emissions. Let me take you through my eye-opening journey!
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Normally, I don't dwell too much on the environmental impact of my travels. The excitement and exhaustion of the journey often leave no room for such thoughts. But this time, Coldplay's Sustainability Report caught my attention. Their incredible efforts to reduce carbon emissions during their World Tour left me inspired. They used plant-based LED light wristbands, kinetic dance floors, and even planted 5 million trees! It was a wake-up call for sure!
So, I decided to use the "ecotree" website to calculate my own carbon emissions. Here's what I found:
By Plane:
- Distance traveled to Kota Kinabalu: 2864 km
- Carbon emission per person: 480 kg
- Fun fact: This amount of energy could power the Eiffel Tower for 7 days!
By Car:
- From Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang (on arrival): 104 km | 52 kg CO2
- Travels during the trip (to Desa Dairy Farm, Sabah Tea Plantation, observatory deck, etc.): About 6 km per trip | 3 kg CO2 per trip (let's say we made about 8 trips)
Now, let's shock you! Considering there were six people on the trip, here's the total carbon emissions:
By Plane: 480 kg/person * 6 people = 2880 kg CO2
By Car: (52 kg + (8 trips * 3 kg/trip)) * 6 people = 360 kg CO2
Total Carbon Emissions: 2880 kg (Plane) + 360 kg (Car) = 3240 kg CO2
Yes, that's a shocking 3240 kilograms of carbon emissions for just one trip!
Now, let's take a moment to reflect. Traveling is a wonderful experience that broadens our horizons and creates cherished memories. However, it's essential to be aware of the environmental impact we leave behind. 🌿 The Earth's delicate balance is disrupted by excessive CO2 emissions, and we can all make a difference by being more conscious of our carbon footprint. Here's how! 🌳✨
Consider adopting sustainable travel practices, like using eco-friendly transportation, supporting local businesses, and minimizing waste. Small changes can lead to significant reductions in carbon emissions. Just like Coldplay's remarkable efforts, we too can contribute to a greener and more sustainable world.
P.S. Check out these 7 Simple Ways To Travel Sustainably!
What's a better way to travel sustainably?
Using travelling to Seoul, South Korea as a gauge:
By Plane (1 pax)
- Distance traveled from Singapore to Seoul: 9318 km
- Carbon emission per person: 1256 kg
- Fun fact: This amount of energy could power the Eiffel Tower for 17 days!
When compared to travelling to Kota Kinabalu:
We can see that traveling short haul can indeed be a more eco-friendly travel option. By reducing the distance traveled, you inherently decrease the carbon emissions associated with your journey. Short-haul trips often involve shorter flights or less driving, both of which contribute to a smaller carbon footprint.
Additionally, shorter trips can encourage travelers to explore local destinations, support nearby communities, and engage in sustainable practices more easily. While long-haul travel can be rewarding, considering the environmental impact of our journeys and opting for shorter, more localized adventures can make a significant positive difference in preserving our planet!
So, next time you embark on an adventure, remember that every action counts. Let's travel with a purpose, leaving behind not just footprints but also a positive impact on our planet. Together, we can make a world of difference. Happy and eco-conscious travels!