Each year, only around 10% of the world’s population flies, yet air travel still accounts for up to 2.5% of the world’s carbon emissions. As global incomes continue to rise, this impact is only expected to increase. Air travel is one of the most carbon-intensive choices we make, and therefore flying less is one of the most impactful actions we can take to lower our climate footprint.

Innovations such as sustainable aviation fuel are a step towards more sustainable air travel; however, they’re not yet widely implemented and will never entirely eliminate the environmental impact of flying. The most effective way to reduce aviation’s climate impact is for all of us to avoid unnecessary flights. This is especially important for frequent flyers (just 1% of the world’s population represents 50% of the carbon impact from flying), but all of us can have an impact by reducing our flight frequency, even if that’s just taking one less flight per year.

While flying less may seem limiting at first, there are plenty of alternatives that allow us to travel and connect with others across distance, all while keeping a low carbon footprint. Trains and buses are great options for flight-free travel, and can sometimes connect you to unique destinations which you would not have considered if you were planning a trip around a flight. As an added benefit, these kinds of “on the ground” travel can bring you closer to the area, people, and culture that you’re visiting. If you’re traveling too far for a train or bus (such as traveling overseas), limit yourself to one flight to and from your destination, and then use trains, buses, or public transportation for the rest. And if a flight is truly unavoidable, consider purchasing carbon credits to help offset your emissions.

With a little bit of planning, you can have all of the benefits of travel with a lower environmental impact. For inspiration and to connect to like-minded communities, join the flight-free movement at the “Definition” link below and view a helpful guide at the “Action” link.