How we choose to get around is one of the most impactful day-to-day decisions we make. From how we get to class or the shop to how far we travel on holidays, there are many decisions we can make to reduce our footprints when it comes to transportation. Transport can also have a big impact on our personal health and well-being, as well as that of our communities.

Tips

  • Fly less. We all love convenient travel, but flying is the most carbon-intensive activity most people will ever partake in. The UK and Europe have fantastic rail networks, among other options. The page Seat61 usefully outlines routes across the UK, Europe and the world which you can do by ferry. Pledge to be flight free for a year, for holidays this year, or for life through Flight Free UK. Why not consider during an Interrail trip next summer instead of taking the plane somewhere? Travel through the world, not over it.
  • The Eurail map shows the bigger cities in Europe, to which cities they are connected and how long it takes to travel between them. It’s an interactive map, so start clicking around and planning your trip!
  • Prioritise active transportation. Walk. Bike. Dance. Burn calories, not carbon.
  • London has some of the best public transportation in the world, and there are good deals to be had for both staff and students.
  • Under 25? Don’t forget to check out the 16-25 railcard. It can save you 1/3 on off-peak tube travel alone.
  • King’s has a cycle-to-work scheme that makes choosing the bicycle much easier. King’s also has a Bike Buddies Scheme that offers support to cyclists. Check out King’s Active Travel group for all tips and resources. 1 in 4 London commutes now take place by bicycle!
  • Take the stairs instead of the lift. A few trips in a lift each day could account for over 100kg of CO2 emissions in a year. Perhaps more importantly, there are undeniable health benefits with choosing the steps.

Resources

Sources

10:10, ETA, BBC