If you are traveling it is possible to “offset” the carbon cost of your journey with the help of some of the largest travel companies.

Offsetting refers to projects that compensate for emissions by providing for “sinks” that will absorb the equivalent amount of carbon. Many of these projects involve funding re-forestation projects, both domestically and abroad, with the majority in developing countries.

Check out Expedia’s “traveler’s guide to going green” Travelocity has partnered-up with TerraPass who offer bundles that fund clean energy production, methane mitigation strategies for farmers and landfill gas capture. These offsets are only a few dollars and can be added to the price of your ticket with one quick click.

Orbitz has engaged Carbonfund.org and offers links and information at their microsite, eco.orbitz.com. From there, you can purchase offsets for both domestic and international flights (a flat-fee for each.) According to their website, Carbonfund.org makes it easy and affordable for everyone to offset their carbon footprint with high-quality, 3rd party verified renewable energy, energy efficiency and reforestation projects.”

Travelocity offers access to GoZero carbon emission offsets through their “travel for good” program. This program not only helps travelers offset carbon emissions, but also offers access to socially-responsible travel options and options that support our domestic economy. Don’t forget, being green is not JUST about the environment!

Additional Resources

http://www.expedia.com/daily/sustainable_travel/going_green/default.asp

http://www.terrapass.com/

http://www.carbonfund.org/

http://www.orbitz.com/App/PerformMDLPDealsContent?deal_id=eco-vacations&cnt=OVI 

http://leisure.travelocity.com/Promotions/0,,TRAVELOCITY%7C5019%7Cmkt_main,00.html