E-scooter 101: Green Travel and the Dangers of Greenwashing
Avoid getting tricked by greenwashing schemes while looking for green travel alternatives like electric scooters.
The digital age allowed global interconnection, encouraging frequent travel. It also paved the way for digital nomads who constantly travel while working remotely through their laptops. Unfortunately, increased travel also contributed to rising carbon emissions. According to a 2023 study, the transportation sector generates nearly 25.00% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
Growing concern regarding global warming and manmade climate change led to an intensifying call for sustainable alternatives. Green travel is one of the most crucial eco-friendly movements.
What is Green Travel?
Green travel, also known as sustainable travel, ecotourism, and conscious travel, aims to minimize the negative impact of transportation on local communities and the environment. It involves choosing environmentally friendly options to reduce your carbon footprint while traveling. It also includes waste reduction, shopping locally, and supporting community initiatives. Choosing a more efficient vehicle also counts. The Flash Motors Infinity X can cover 70 miles on a single 6-hour charge.
The Pitfalls of Greenwashing
Scammers can be found in every popular area. Hence, supporters of green travel should keep an eye out for greenwashing schemes. Greenwashing occurs when a company pretends to follow sustainable practices despite implementing no environmentally friendly policies. Moreover, such companies often do the opposite of what they say, engaging in activities that violate the environment. They practice greenwashing to mask their bad practices from authorities and consumers.
In addition, greenwashing actors can devastate the green travel movement as it undermines the trust of genuine supporters. Below are notable examples of greenwashing.
- In the mid-2000s, Volkswagen launched a Clean Diesel campaign, claiming the automaker had developed an environmentally friendly fuel with lower carbon dioxide emissions and unparalleled efficiency. However, it was exposed in 2015 that Volkswagen installed software in its cars that manipulated emission tests. The software made the fuel appear sustainable despite emitting more pollutants than the average gasoline.
- In 2019, McDonald’s implemented a paper straw system in all its branches across the globe, touting the initiative’s effectiveness in reducing the fast-food company’s plastic waste. However, the program only shifted the problem from plastic pollution to deforestation since McDonald’s plastic straws were non-recyclable.
If you plan to patronize a business due to its sustainability efforts, research its green travel programs to ensure they are genuine. You can also join like-minded online groups and communities to get more feedback.
