Vacation in today’s modern society means a respite from our everyday concerns and anxieties. However, just because you’re on vacation, doesn’t mean you have to take a vacation from being environmentally conscious. You can still take a much-needed break, while continuing to perform various sustainable practices.

More and more hotels are beginning to provide opportunities for occupants to stay eco-friendly while away from home. Here are a few ways in which you can ensure a relaxing and green stay on your next trip:

Towels and Linens – Most hotels now have reuse programs. They ask that if you don’t want your towels washed, to hang them up and if you don’t want your sheets washed, to lay a small card on your pillowcase that indicates so.

Lighting - Choose natural lighting over artificial lighting. Hotel rooms generally have big windows, which provide a well-lit hotel room during the day.

Air Conditioning – If you are in the right climate, allow the natural breeze to cool off the room. Otherwise, ensure that all windows are closed when using air conditioning.

Recycling - Some hotels now have recycling bins in each room. If they do not, ask the hotel staff about their recycling policy. Sometimes the maids separate out the recyclables after they have removed the trash from the room.

Transportation - Use hotel and public transportation when available. Also take advantage of other offers, such as bike rentals. Not only are they eco-friendly, but they are also a fun and fit way of traveling!

By performing these and other, everyday sustainable practices, having a green vacation should be both rewarding and peaceful. In addition, don’t hesitate to provide feedback to the hotel. If they know their occupants care about the environment, they will too! Now go forth and… relax.

October is Walk to School month, and some schools are organizing official “walk to school days” for their community. The event’s website talks about the goals for the project:

International Walk to School is more than just getting together with children and going for a walk to school as a special event. This is certainly important, but the event’s greater aim is to bring forth permanent change in communities across the globe. Below are just a few of its goals:

• Encourage physical activity by teaching children the skills to walk safely, how to identify safe routes to school, and the benefits of walking.
• Raise awareness of how walkable a community is and where improvements can be made.
• Raise concern for the environment.
• Reduce crime and take back neighborhoods for people on foot.
• Reduce traffic congestion, pollution, and speed near schools.
• Share valuable time with local community leaders, parents, and children.

Check out the event website for more details at www.iwalktoschool.org. Is your school participating? Let us know in the comments below!