Fifteen years ago, it was pretty straightforward. Driving had less impact on the environment than flying—unless you were taking a long solo ride in an Escalade. In recent years, however, airlines have cut their per passenger carbon footprint significantly by increasing fuel efficiency and squishing more passengers onto each plane. But that doesn’t mean we’re telling you to drop what you’re doing and book flights to all the places on your bucket list. Check out the stats below to see when it’s best to hit the open road and when you should soar above it.
And The Winner Is…
Well, it depends. The biggest variable when making a decision whether to fly or drive is the number of people traveling. Unless you are driving an M1 Abrams tank, which gets 0.6 miles per gallon, it’s better to pile into a 23 mpg car if you have more than three people traveling together. On a full or nearly full flight, the per person carbon footprint is roughly the same—despite the number of people in your party. In a car, on the other hand, each additional person reduces the overall environmental impact of the trip proportionally. It also reduces your per person cost proportionally. But basically it comes down to some if-then statements, assuming you’re driving a car that gets the average 23 mpg.
If you’re traveling solo, more than 250 miles…
…take a plane.
If you’re traveling solo, less than 250 miles…
…hit the highway.
If you’re traveling in pairs, more than 750 miles…
…plan on flying.
If you’re traveling in pairs, less than 750 miles…
…bone up on your road trip games.
If you’re traveling with 3 or more people, more than 1,000 miles…
…book a whole row.
If you’re traveling with 3 or more people, less than 1,000 miles…
…start planning you’re driving shifts.
Disclaimer: While carpooling decreases the negative impact on the environment, it may test your sanity. Repeat after us, “sharing is caring.”
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Tips For Reducing Your Carbon Footprint
1. Because takeoff and ground operations burn a lot of fuel, nonstop flights have a significantly lower carbon footprint. For example, a 1,000-mile nonstop flight can use 35 percent less fuel than a similar destination with a connecting flight.
2. Consider alternative eco-friendly options such as trains and busses when planning a trip. Both typically have downtown stations, which may eliminate the need for a car. Also, many busses and trains now offer amenities __like reclining seats, Internet access, and bathrooms.
3. If you are planning a road trip with three or more people, look into renting a hybrid luxury car or SUV. It can be more comfortable, save wear and tear on the family car, and use less fuel. Renting from an airport is usually cheaper than an in-town rental location.
4. There are plenty of tools that can help you calculate a specific trip’s carbon impact, cost, and travel time, such as BeFrugal. TerraPass and The Nature Conservancy help calculate your carbon footprint and suggest practical ways to offset it. And the EPA Carbon Footprint Calculator tabulates your household’s carbon impact, including transportation, heating, and waste.