"Green" Replaces the Frequent Flyer Upgrade as the New Status Symbol of the World Traveler

Despite the doom-and-gloom reporting we hear on the news, the travel industry is holding steady. As fuel prices rise, consumers as well as corporations are realizing that natural resources are a precious commodity, and initiatives are springing up to encourage "green travel" all over the world. "Green" replaces the frequent flyer upgrade as the new status symbol of the world traveler.

It used to be that responsible eco-tourism rested entirely on the backs of the traveler. Tips like "be sure to turn down your water heater" and "use public transportation" were the rule. Those mantras still hold true today, but now, airlines, cruise ships and entire countries are onboard with green travel. We're only beginning to scratch the surface of these exciting global changes, it's thrilling to think of where we can go from here.

For many, the first step to a dream vacation is getting to the airport and hopping on a flight. What are the airlines doing to make their businesses more eco-friendly? It starts with ticketing. Getting your hands on a paper ticket is as likely as finding your luggage at Heathrow's Terminal 5. Ticketless travel is where it's at, no paper, no waste. Airlines are also flying slower - Southwest Airlines says they're saving almost $50 million in jet fuel this year. Not only that, it won't impact your arrival time. Flying slowly adds a mere 1 to 8 minutes to your flight. It's good for their financials, and great for Mother Nature.

Turks and Caicos just announced last week that they are the first "green islands". Their major environmental initiatives will benefit both tourists and citizens. The island of Salt Cay will be nurturing and enhancing its native ecosystems by limiting new development to two story, low density buildings that invest in renewable energy. Their other huge step is the first eco-marina in the Atlantic. The Turks and Caicos Yacht Club features state-of-the-art fuel delivery and spill protection systems and computerized water and sewage disposal. Well known resorts like the Ritz Carlton are onboard with the government's plans, preserving the island chain's archaeological heritage and restricting on-property transportation to electric vehicles and bicycles.

The popularity of cruises will increase exponentially as hotel fares and currency exchanges become exorbitantly priced. Not only is it easy on the traveler, but often ships are the only vessels that can navigate the world's diminishing natural wonders. As glaciers slough off into the seas, cruise ships allow their guests to witness the real life impact of climate change. It's a comfortable and convenient way to see Antarctica or the Galapagos Islands without fear of leaving an ugly footprint behind.

As consumers and businesses see the big impact of their little changes, our world will benefit immensely. Working together is just the vehicle to move us forward.