Travel and Work
The Frog will explore The Climate Action Handbook: A Visual Guide to 100 Climate Solutions by Heidi Roop in the first 100 days of 2024
In the first `100 days of 2024 we will explore 100 climate solutions that may “empower you to evaluate, engage, and act” to address on-going climate change as an individual on your terms.
I recently stayed in a Hyatt Hotel and noticed a new feature in the bathroom. Instead of tidy line of little plastic bottles containing shampoo, conditioner, and hand lotion, there were larger pump bottles of these personal care products mounted on the wall. This is a positive change that addresses a critical aspect of the hospitality industry.
For years I was comfortable with leaving little plastic bottles and barely used cakes of soap behind as I checked out. Turns out, we do that a lot. Marriot International tackled the unsustainable practice of an estimated 500 million plastic items which represented a 30% reduction in their annual plastic waste generation.
We also bear responsibility for taking action. Heidi points to a study that suggests that when we travel, we produce twice the amount of trash as travelers compared to local residents. I think this seems to be consistent with my experience in business travel, where I tend to be more comfortable with consuming items that generate waste that I would otherwise try and minimize in my daily life, like to-go cups, plastic water bottles, and disposable utensils.
“The main point is to be conscious of your consumption and any waste your are creating”
Heidi Roop
Heidi suggest making a “trash travel log” on your next trip and includes some suggestions as a checklist:
- Carry a refillable water bottle and coffee container
- Bring your own toiletries
- Find and use recycling bins
- Avoid single-use items
- Walk or take public transportation
- Turn down the AC
- Hand-wash and air-dry clothing
- Staying at a homeshare, consider cooking
- Hang up, dry, and reuse towels.
With a little research you can find those hotel chains that align with the environment values you hold and by choosing to spend your travel dollars with them (and letting others know about your choice) we can signal the whole industry to make the needed changes. And with a little planning and awareness, you can minimize your own impact while you are on the road.
Next Up: Climate Action in 2024 – Day 19: Find Alternatives to Work Related Travel
Howard Creel
#rescuethatfrog
Email: rescuethatfrog@gmail.com