SUSTAINABLE Florida

When talking about sustainable travel and Florida there’s an elephant in the room: the only way for us Brits to reach the State is by aeroplane, and aviation’s impact on the climate is well reported and discussed. The World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) May 2023 report stated that travel and tourism was accountable for 8.1% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with international aviation contributing 13.8% of all travel and tourism emissions. Some would say that flying anywhere is not acceptable.

However, beyond environmental protection, talk around sustainability must also factor in social equity and economic viability. Should the restorative joy of travel and the mind-broadening benefits of being exposed to other people, places and cultures, as well as the employment and living standards that are elevated by tourism arrivals globally encourage you to still make that journey, then let us help you to make your next trip as sustainable as possible.

This Sustainable Florida supplement helps you consider how to travel when you’re in the USA, where to stay, and the things to do when you’re exploring the Sunshine State’s incredible destinations.

Lastly, as you know, every holiday booked through our social enterprise Charitable Travel enables a free 5% donation to charity – so why not choose a charity that protects the environment?

How to fly fairly. If you can, opt for the latest aircraft – Dreamliners and A350s are better for the environment. Fly non-stop, as take off and landing create the most emissions, and don’t fly business class (yes, you heard that right) – it generates a carbon footprint between 2.6 and 4.3 bigger than flying economy.

How to get around considerately. Take the train or bus – Florida has great public transport around resort areas. When you’re out and about, pick pedal or paddle power, and don’t rent a gas guzzler. Opt for an EV vehicle or a hybrid instead.

How to stay responsibly. Look for hotels with sustainable practices. No single use plastics and limited laundry is a minimum. Check its certification too – let us help you navigate this minefield to find places genuine in their sustainability. Lastly, opt for ‘farm to fork’ restaurants that buy local to reduce their emissions.

How to experience ethically. We’ve shared lots of things to see and do in Sustainable Florida that consider responsible travel. Think about wildlife protection and no-touch tourism – wildlife should be wildlife, unless it’s been rescued, and use your choices to also support the local heritage and culture for future generations.

Sustainable Florida ©CHARITABLE TRAVEL 2023. CHARITABLE TRAVELLER is part of CHARITABLE TRAVEL, Fundraising Futures Community Interest Company, Contingent Works, Broadway Buildings, Elmfield Road, Bromley, BR1 1LW, UK. Putting our profit to work supporting the work of charitable causes. T: 020 3092 1288 E: bookings@charitable.travel W: charitable.travel. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, CHARITABLE TRAVEL cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. CEO: Melissa Tilling; MARKETING: Ally Ware, Rosie Buddell, Adam Pedley & Maddy Foot; SALES: Ali Nicholls; MAGAZINE EDITOR: Rebecca Miles (editor@charitable.travel); MAGAZINE DESIGNER: Claire Gates. Cover image: Autumn Kuney at Unsplash.