Take in the glories and wonders of our natural environment while keeping nature clean and unspoiled. We all have to play our part to be more observant, caring, and protective of the earth, water and skies. This applies to all endeavors, even road trips. Here are a few environmentally friendly things to consider when you''re on the road.
Road trips mean long distance driving. Thus, it helps a lot to take a fuel-efficient car. A gas-guzzler wastes precious resources: gas and your money (especially today with such high gas prices). Keep in mind that in America cars are responsible for about a quarter of all emissions of carbon dioxide, a primary contributor to global warming.
On a similar note, check out your car before your trip and make sure the exhaust system is functioning properly. You don''t want to be cited for emitting noxious fumes. There''s enough air pollution already. We have to do all we can to be part of the solution rather than contributing to the problem.
Don''t litter! If you''re camping, make sure you leave your site as pristine as you found it (hopefully, the campers before you were equally respectful).
Also, never throw trash out of your car windows.
Keep a garbage bag in your car and fill it up along the way. Then, toss it in a proper receptacle when you stop. Be especially careful when disposing of toxic materials (i.e., motor oil cans).
You can also keep up the green spirit in more personal ways. While eating fast food and going to drive-ins can be a lot of fun on road trips, make an extra effort to balance your diet with healthy food. You can eat healthy on a road trip. It just takes a little more effort and planning.
Buy lots of dried fruits, canned fish and fresh veggies at local supermarkets. Eat slowly. Savor your food. Drink a lot of water. If you must have fast food, eat a baked potato instead of fries. Order grilled chicken on a salad with a low-fat dressing. Check out farmer''s markets and produce stands. Make healthier eating a fun part of your trip!
You can make your road trip greener for the environment as well as your body. Keep nature clean and eat healthy whenever you can. An environmentally friendly road trip is a wonder in itself!