In an era where climate change and resource scarcity are becoming ever more prevalent, the travel industry must brace itself for some significant changes in travel patterns.

For the eco-minded traveler, these changes are welcome, as they are leading us towards a more sustainable future.

Small shifts are already occurring, with, for example, many travelers opting to vacation closer to home.

Thus far, most changes that have taken place have been personal and voluntary. 

However, we are beginning to see indicators of a larger-scale trend. 

Case in point: Many U.S. airline companies are now charging for checked baggage, a move that could have seemingly been avoided if the cost was incorporated into a ticket price increase.

However, an unforeseen benefit of excluding this tax from the published fare is that it educates the traveler not to pack as much, which in turn cuts fuel costs via improved airline fuel economy. After all, a lighter plane is one that burns less fuel, reducing the amount of greenhouse gas emissions released into the atmosphere. The baggage tax may be a blessing in disguise, although the extra cost for the consumer can sting temporarily. 

The idea of taxing individuals for their specific impact on natural resources and the environment is not a new concept. In many European countries, gasoline taxes account for over half the price at the pump. 

The net effect of decades of high gas prices has been an increased emphasis on public transportation, as well as the development of more efficient automobiles and stronger metro-area planning and development. 

A similar phenomenon is now occurring in the U.S. According to the American Public Transportation Association, Americans took 2.6 billion trips on all modes of public transportation in the first three months of 2008, a 3.3 percent increase, or almost 85 million more trips than in the same period last year. 

Dwindling resources and elevated energy prices are causing the travel industry to rethink the way we do business. No longer is sustainability a concern reserved for environmentalists, rather it is becoming a focus of any company interested in thriving during these challenging times. 

Fortunately, we have many great examples of industry leaders paving the way, including the stories below, which should serve as an inspiration to all of us! 

Happy reading and all the best, 

Harry Dalgaard III 
Director of Administration 
harryd@sustainabletravel.com

www.sustainabletravel.com