Categories: Sustainable Travels

Traveling Waste Conundrums: Green Questions

It’s easy to get into the reusable groove at home, but what about when you’re on the road (or flight)?

I recently traveled to Austin to run a half marathon. Although I packed my stainless steel water bottle for the trip, my carry on suitcase was essentially full with all of my other goods. Before starting our day, we wanted a quick breakfast on the run. Asking for a bagel and coffee ended up with this much waste:

Although we could have sat down at a restaurant, that would have wasted 1-2 hours for a simple breakfast.

So what’s a sustainable gal (or guy) to do? Although you could bring a stainless steel dining set, it’s not always practical to carry. Things in ‘to go’ convenience stores often are prepackaged, or employees may be used to a packaging method. Often times chains insist on ‘sanitation’ measures with extra plastic and paper packaging. I remember once a waitress brought a styrofoam container to the table (proactively) but wasn’t allowed to bring it back to the kitchen because it ‘hit the table’.

What do you think about traveling and packaging waste? Any changes you’ve made?

Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is Editor-in-Chief of Green Philly, sharing her expertise of all things sustainable in the city of brotherly love. She enjoys long walks in the park with local beer and greening her travels, cooking & cat, Sir Floofus Drake.

Share
Published by
Julie Hancher
Tags: Traveling

Recent Posts

Harnessing People Power: How Councilmember O’Rourke advocates for the environment and the working class

Councilmember Nicolas O’Rourke discusses affordability and access to green initiatives in our latest Civic Catalyst…

11 hours ago

Drumroll for the 2025 SustainPHL Award Recipients

Let's sail-ebrate the latest changemakers who are moving the region towards a sustainable, equitable place.…

6 days ago

Community farm preservation, curbing animal cruelty, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: Community Farm gets closer to community ownership. The…

7 days ago

Did you hear? There’s an election on November 4th, and your voice (or sitting at home) can impact the environment.

Philadelphia residents will not only vote on who will be the next district attorney, but…

1 week ago

Nature Challenge results, National Walk & Roll to School Day, & more

Catch up on the latest sustainability news: Transit advocates demand better SEPTA funding. On Tuesday…

2 weeks ago

Philly wants more trash cans and trees, believes civic engagement is key

Part Two of Every Voice, Every Vote research revealed that Philly takes pride in community…

2 weeks ago