𝗛𝗼𝘄 𝘁𝗼 𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘀𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗹𝘆

We could plan our year with sustainability in everything we do.

Sustainability is an awareness of pollution and waste and how our actions impact it. We might wish to reduce pollution of the air, water and land. We might want to reduce the waste of resources, food and packaging. This may not cover everything important, but it is a start. We can make an enormous difference if we all improve by 10% yearly.

Sustainability can also embrace regional employment, good employment relations and the promotion of culturally rich activities.

Here’s just an example:

The annual holiday abroad. Taking a young family is stressful enough, and the option to get there as hassle-free and as quickly as possible is essential. We budget for something like this: On the day of departure, we make our way to the parking lot as close to the airport as possible. We have paid for the flights and insurance and expect to get to our destination sometime over the weekend.

The check-in procedure depends on who you fly with, the airport and the departure time. These procedures will include security screening and the impact of no longer being part of the EEC. Sometimes, a pandemic could crop up – but let’s be positive.

There may be another way for those who value the journey as much as the destination.

A flightless holiday. Maybe a train or even an overnight sleeper. Some passengers enjoy local food showcased as they pass through the countryside – thus making the journey as important as the destination.

Flights are faster and probably cheaper but are viewed more as something to be endured rather than a vacation feature. In contrast, a rail journey can be less polluting, include stunning views, be convenient with easy boarding, and offer social interaction opportunities.

So how do the comparisons compare regarding reducing pollution, reducing waste and engaging with socially empowering opportunities and local employment? Land-based transport can stop at pre-planned locations along the way. The overnight sleepers do what a plane does; there is not much to see, but the plane is quicker. Themed train journeys can provide additional experiences and are part of the experience. Combining express and scenic trains can provide the best of both worlds.

The logic also applies to using active transport such as walking and cycling to enjoy the journey rather than the default position of jumping into the car.