Tourism can cause some negative impacts on the environment. But how can we still have fun traveling while respecting the environment in 2025?

Eco-responsible travel: our guide for 2025

The tourism industry is set to reach pre-pandemic heights in 2024, which is great news for businesses and those who work within the sector, however, it’s not such good news when it comes to the environment. Accounting for approximately 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, the tourism sector is exacerbating climate change. Additionally, cheaper flights and ease of travel mean that mass tourism is placing undue pressure on local ecosystems and communities.

With global warming an increasing problem across the globe, and even threatening some of the destinations that tourists flock to, this has us wondering: Can eco-responsible travel help mitigate the environmental footprint of tourism?

👉 In this article we explore the environmental effects of mass tourism, and how eco-responsible travel can help to lessen some of the damaging impacts.

Mass tourism, also known as over-tourism, is referred to as “the movement of a large number of organized tourists to popular holiday destinations for recreational purposes”. Often associated with the traditional holiday package, it describes the use of standardized travel products and mass consumption that is typically associated with other sectors, such as the fashion industry. Despite the relatively minor impact of tourists on an individual level, when it comes to mass tourism it is the sheer volume of visitors in popular destinations that results in a negative impact on the environment.

💡 Did you know? 95% of the world's tourists flock to just 5% of its land area. This places a huge strain on a select number of popular tourist locations. 

The root of this mass tourism can be traced back to the democratization of travel, boosted by more affordable transport and cheaper resort accommodation. The growth within the travel sector has risen steadily since the 1950s, generating huge revenues and providing jobs in many countries and communities. According to Statista the number of international tourist arrivals in 2023 totalled just under 1.3 billion, not too far off the peak of over 1.4 billion tourists in 2019. 

And while this might be good news for the economy, with tourism receipts reaching USD 1.4 trillion in 2023, this form of travel can unfortunately have a negative impact on local communities, environments, and historical sites. Less desirable impacts of mass tourism include: 

Increased consumption of water, raw materials, and food products

Mass tourism exerts enormous pressure on local resources. In many popular destinations, the influx of tourists leads to a significant spike in water usage, often in areas where water is already a scarce commodity. This increased demand can lead to water shortages for local communities. Additionally, the need for construction materials to build hotels, resorts, and other tourist facilities often leads to overexploitation of natural resources. The food industry, too, faces a surge in demand, which can result in overfishing and other unsustainable practices to cater to the varied tastes of international tourists.

The carbon footprint of mass tourism is substantial. Air travel, one of the primary modes of transport for international tourists, is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the energy consumption of large hotels and resorts, often powered by fossil fuels, adds to the environmental impact. Recreational activities, such as cruises and leisure flights, further exacerbate these emissions, significantly contributing to global climate change and also increasing air pollution.

The local economy in popular tourist destinations often gets skewed towards tourism. This can lead to inflated property values and rent, making housing unaffordable for local residents. Similarly, as businesses cater more to tourists, food prices can rise, driven by increased demand and the introduction of products tailored to tourist preferences. This economic shift can make a living in tourism-centric areas prohibitively expensive for locals.

Degradation of natural and cultural heritage

Tourism can lead to a variety of environmental problems including the physical degradation of natural sites due to overuse and lack of proper maintenance. Sensitive ecosystems, like coral reefs and mountain trails, are particularly vulnerable. Cultural heritage sites also suffer from over-tourism, with historical landmarks and monuments facing wear and tear from excessive foot traffic. Additionally, the commercialization of cultural practices and artifacts can dilute their authenticity and significance, leading to a loss of cultural heritage.

The situation has escalated to the point where the experience of vacationing is often marred by excessive crowds and noise. While tourism generates economic benefits, some destinations are becoming increasingly un-liveable and less appealing to both residents and visitors.

👉 Learn more about the impacts of tourism on the environment in our article. 

Tourism has surged in recent decades, causing large-scale environmental degradation, dangerous conditions, and pricing-out locals at major tourist sites. In this episode of The Idea File, Atlantic staff writer Annie Lowrey explains over-tourism and what we can do to fix it. 

Watch previous episodes of the Idea File series here:   

 • Millennials Are Sick of Drinking  

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Too Many People Want to Travel

Sustainable tourism on the other hand is the antithesis to mass tourism. It's an approach that integrates the principles of sustainable development to travel. The World Tourism Organization (WTO) defines sustainable tourism as “tourism that takes full account of its current and future economic, social, and environmental impacts, addressing the needs of visitors, the industry, the environment, and host communities”.  

Economic sustainability - Ensuring that tourism contributes positively to the economic well-being of host destinations while ensuring fair distribution of benefits among all stakeholders.

Social sustainability - Focusing on the well-being of local communities, respecting their cultures and traditions, and ensuring that tourism does not lead to social displacement or exploitation.

Environmental sustainability - Minimising the ecological footprint of tourism activities, conserving natural resources, and promoting the preservation of biodiversity and natural habitats.

A key aspect of sustainable tourism is the active role played by tourists. It calls for travelers to be conscious of their impact and to make choices that support the sustainability of the destinations they visit. This involves understanding the social and environmental consequences of their travel and actively seeking to reduce negative impacts.

Most people understand that if we want to continue with traveling we need to embrace sustainable travel to minimize our impact on the environment, support local communities, and preserve natural and cultural resources.

Here is a short and effective video about this topic. #travel #sustainabletravel #ecotourism #sustainability #tourismindustry #travel

What is sustainable travel, and why it is important. Explained in two minutes

Mass tourism is becoming an increasingly big concern for many tourist locations around the world. These destinations, while benefiting economically, are facing severe environmental and cultural threats that are also exacerbated by global warming. 

Not only is this having a negative effect on the local populations within the impacted areas, but it’s also negatively impacting the experience of visitors to such locations. Let’s take a closer look at some of the world's most iconic tourist destinations that are suffering under the pressures of mass tourism: 

Tulum's transformation from a hidden gem to a major tourist hotspot is a textbook example of the double-edged sword of mass tourism. The influx of millions annually, drawn by its pristine beaches, clear waters, and Mayan ruins, has led to significant environmental and infrastructural strains, for example: 

Rapid urbanization has led to the destruction of vital forests and mangroves

Overwhelmed wastewater systems are causing pollution, affecting both the underground water table and the Caribbean Sea

The construction boom, including hotels and roads, has dramatically altered the natural landscape

The spread of open-air dumps poses serious environmental and health hazards

Growth has seen Tulum's population triple in less than a decade, raising concerns about its future sustainability

Venice is another world-famous tourist location that is struggling with mass tourism. The influx of huge visitor numbers, including large cruise ships entering the lagoon highlights the delicate balance between preserving cultural heritage and accommodating the needs of its tourist-driven economy. The daily influx of tourists, outnumbering the local population, has prompted the city to implement significant measures in an effort to counter the effects of mass tourism, including:

A ban on large boats to protect the historic center’s foundations

Restrictions on new souvenir shops to maintain local culture

An entrance fee for day-trippers to manage visitor numbers and promote off-season tourism

It’s hoped that these measures will help safeguard Venice's status as a World Heritage site and ensure its viability for future generations.

Santorini, famed for its stunning sunsets and unique architecture, is another victim of its own success. The island, particularly during the peak summer months, struggles under the weight of tourist demand:

The infrastructure of the small island is stretched to its limits, struggling to accommodate the sheer number of visitors

Local resources, such as water and energy, are under immense pressure, leading to sustainability concerns

The charm and tranquillity that draw people to Santorini are at risk, as overcrowding and noise pollution increase

Measures to control the flow of tourists, especially from cruise ships, are being considered to preserve the island's unique character and environment

Like Tulum and Venice, Santorini's experience underscores the urgent need for a sustainable approach to tourism. Balancing economic benefits with environmental preservation and local community well-being is essential for the survival of these destinations.

👉 Discover how climate change is impacting your favorite holiday destinations in our article. 

Tourism has grown exponentially over the past few decades, but what effect is it having on some of the world's most beautiful cities? We break down four major ways cities are being impacted by mass tourism.
#MassTourism #Tourism

How mass tourism is destroying cities

‍‍How to travel eco-responsibly in 2024

Traveling, by its very nature, has an environmental impact, but it's possible to significantly reduce this footprint. The focus isn't on stopping tourism altogether but on embracing a more mindful and sustainable way of traveling.

Upholding the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism

The Global Code of Ethics for Tourism, established by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), sets out a series of principles aimed at minimizing tourism's negative impacts on the environment and cultural heritage. This framework, adopted in 1999, encourages responsible and sustainable tourism development worldwide. It is a non-binding set of guidelines comprising ten core principles, which emphasize:

Fostering mutual respect - Tourism should promote understanding and respect among different cultures and societies

Encouraging fulfillment - Travel should serve as a means for individual and collective fulfillment

Sustainable development - Tourism must be a driving force for sustainable development

Preserving cultural heritage - Tourism should respect and contribute to the preservation and enhancement of cultural heritage.

Benefiting local communities - Host countries and communities should benefit from tourism activities

Stakeholder responsibilities - All parties involved in tourism development must uphold their respective obligations

Right to tourism - Everyone has the right to access tourism experiences

Freedom of movement - Tourists should have the liberty to move freely, provided they respect local regulations and customs.

Workers' Rights - The rights of workers and entrepreneurs in the tourism industry must be protected.

Implementing ethical principles - The principles of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism should be actively implemented and promoted

Adapting to current trends and challenges

As we move through 2024, the principles of the Global Code of Ethics for Tourism are more relevant than ever. The tourism industry faces new challenges, such as adapting to post-pandemic travel norms, addressing climate change more aggressively, and ensuring that technological advancements in travel remain aligned with ethical and sustainable practices.

Travelers, industry professionals, and policymakers must work together to adapt these principles to the current landscape, ensuring that tourism continues to be a force for good, contributing positively to both the planet and its inhabitants. 

In the next section, we outline some of the steps that you can take on an individual level to support eco-tourism and minimize the negative impact of your travel.

Ecotourism was a concept developed in the 70's and 80's as a way to use tourism to encourage conservation and promote the well-being of local communities. Though ecotourism is intended to be a more environmentally friendly alternative, in practice it's not as straightforward. Studies show that in some cases, ecotourism efforts can flop. These failures are often the result of areas that attract too many tourists, and in some cases based on a lack of "charismatic" animal species. In this episode of Mongabay Explains, we look at what makes an ecotourism project a success, and when that can turn into a failure.

Read more: https://news.mongabay.com/2018/12/fro...

#mongabay #ecotourism #biodiversity #wildlife #conservation

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Is ecotourism better for the environment? | Mongabay Explains

Embracing off-the-beaten-path destinations in 2024

The world is filled with hidden gems beyond the usual capital cities and famed tourist spots. Why limit your travels when there are countless lesser-known locations offering unique experiences, cultural richness, and tranquillity? Venturing into these less crowded areas not only offers an escape from the hustle and bustle but also allows you to discover authentic local experiences and contribute to the economies of places that don’t typically benefit from tourism money.

Timing your visit to popular destinations

For those who still wish to visit more popular destinations, why not consider travelling during the off-season? Imagine wandering through the streets of a usually packed city or exploring famous landmarks without the usual throngs of tourists. Off-season travel can provide a more peaceful experience, allowing for a deeper connection with the place and its people.

As we move through 2024, sustainable tourism increasingly emphasises the concept of 'slow travel.' This approach involves traveling less frequently but staying longer at each destination. It’s about immersing yourself in the local culture, environment, and community, rather than hopping quickly from one tourist spot to another. Slow travel allows for a more meaningful and enriching experience, giving travelers the opportunity to truly absorb and appreciate the nuances of different cultures and places - while also reducing carbon emissions!

💡 By adopting these practices, travelers in 2024 can contribute to a more sustainable and responsible tourism culture and one that values the quality of experience over the quantity of destinations.

Travel is one of the best things in the world, yet some aspects of travel aren't sustainable or are wasteful.  This travel tips video shares 12 easy life hacks for sustainable travel.  

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12 Tips For Sustainable Travel

Opting for eco-certified accommodation in 2024

The environmental impact of your travel accommodation can be significant, which is why choosing eco-certified accommodation is a key step in traveling sustainably. Moving away from large hotel chains, travelers now have the opportunity to connect with nature and contribute to its preservation by staying in establishments that prioritize environmental responsibility. These accommodations should adhere to strict standards, focusing on several critical areas:

Emphasis is placed on prioritizing energy efficiency to maintain ideal temperatures while minimizing energy consumption. This might include adopting eco-friendly energy solutions like heat pumps or solar panels or using an electricity plan that utilizes renewable sources.

Commitment to using locally sourced, organic products alongside environmentally friendly textiles helps significantly in cutting down on textile waste.

Incorporation of systems designed to lower both water and energy usage, such as through the utilization of energy-efficient appliances and LED light bulbs.

Implementation of robust waste reduction and recycling strategies coupled with appropriate disposal practices to ensure environmental responsibility.

Focus on construction techniques that are designed to reduce environmental impact and engage local communities, demonstrating a commitment to ecological sustainability and community involvement.

In 2024, there are a number of prominent eco-certification labels that travelers can look for to ensure that their accommodation selection is sustainable:

The European Ecolabel - Recognised across Europe, this label signifies high environmental standards

The Green Key - An international standard of excellence in the field of environmental responsibility and sustainable operation

The Green Globe - A global certification for sustainable tourism

❗Choosing a labeled establishment, however, doesn't absolve guests of personal responsibility. There are a number of other sustainability considerations that you should also take into account. For example, tourists can enhance their eco-friendly impact and reduce the energy consumed by:

Practice energy conservation by turning off lights when leaving a room

💡 For a truly unique experience, why not consider staying in an eco-lodge? These accommodations are designed with minimal environmental impact, and constructed to blend harmoniously with nature. Ecolodges not only protect the surrounding environment but also involve local communities, offering tourists an immersive and eco-conscious experience.

Transportation is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, with 75% of the sector's greenhouse gas emissions. Therefore, to align with eco-responsible travel goals, it's crucial to consider more sustainable modes of transportation.

While airplanes are often the fastest way to travel long distances, they are also among the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in the tourism sector. This is why reducing reliance on air travel is a key step towards sustainable tourism. 

For longer distances, trains have emerged as a favored option for eco-conscious travelers. They offer a more environmentally friendly alternative, significantly reducing the carbon footprint per passenger compared to flights.

While it might not always be possible to avoid flying, usually once you reach your destination the choices for green transportation become more accessible:

Cycling - An excellent way to explore while staying active and minimizing emissions.

Walking - Ideal for short distances and immersing oneself in the local environment.

Public transportation - Buses, subways, and trams are efficient and reduce the per-person environmental impact when compared to taking a taxi.

Carpooling - A viable option for reducing the number of vehicles on the road, especially in areas where public transport is limited. Electric vehicles are also helping to make this even more eco-responsible.


Sustainable travel is often economical too

Governments and local authorities are increasingly recognizing the importance of promoting sustainable transportation. Many countries and regions have introduced affordable public transport passes to encourage tourists and locals alike to opt for greener travel options. These initiatives not only make sustainable travel more accessible but also significantly contribute to reducing CO2 emissions.

👉 Discover why the transportation industry is so harmful to the environment in our blog. 

What does it mean to travel sustainably, ethically, or responsibly? And how do travelers and travel businesses attempt to minimize their negative environmental impact? Let’s explore the green tourism trend in this video.

00:00 Intro
03:48 Environmental sustainability
06:12 Economic sustainability
08:22 Social sustainability in travel

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[4] https://qz.com/1724042/the-countries-...
[5] https://news.booking.com/download/103...
[6] https://www.iea.org/commentaries/are-...
[7] https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20...
[8] https://www.boeing.com/resources/boei...
[9] https://www.iata.org/en/programs/envi...
[10] https://www.sustainability.booking.co...
[11] https://partner.booking.com/en-gb/hel...
[12] https://www.gstcouncil.org/gstc-crite...
[13] https://www.gstcouncil.org/wp-content...

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#sustainabletourism #sustainabletravel #greentravel #greentourism

Green Travel and Sustainable Travel Practices

One of the most enriching aspects of travel is the culinary experiences that it offers. In 2024, the emphasis on consuming local products remains a vital part of sustainable tourism. When you indulge in local specialties, you're not just treating your taste buds you're also playing a role in preserving and supporting:

Culinary traditions - Choosing small, local eateries over international chains helps maintain culinary diversity, reduce food waste, and supports small business owners

The environment - Opting for fresh, locally sourced, seasonal produce reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation.


Bringing home souvenirs is a timeless tradition of travel. In the context of sustainable tourism, selecting artisanal products is a way to contribute positively to the local economy. These items, handcrafted by local artists, are not only unique but also offer an insight into the region's cultural heritage. 

❗ In 2024, it’s increasingly important to be discerning about the origins of the souvenirs you choose. Always check the labels to ensure that the products are genuinely made in the region you are visiting. Avoid souvenirs that are misleadingly tagged with the location's name but are actually produced elsewhere, like the common ‘Made in China’ items found in many tourist destinations.

By consciously choosing to consume local products and souvenirs, travelers contribute to a more sustainable and equitable tourism model. This approach helps preserve local cultures, supports small businesses, and reduces environmental impact, making it a win-win for both the traveler and the host community.

In the spirit of eco-responsible travel, one of the key objectives in 2024 is to explore destinations without leaving a detrimental ecological impact. This approach involves blending seamlessly into new environments, absorbing cultures, and appreciating landscapes without contributing to their degradation.

Responsible waste management is a crucial aspect of this approach. It's essential to avoid littering in nature or public spaces. The practice of carrying your waste until you can dispose of it properly is not just respectful but necessary to preserve the beauty and cleanliness of the places you visit.

Eco-conscious travellers are increasingly adopting the use of durable and reusable items, actionable tips include: 

Water bottles and coffee cups - Use reusable water bottles and coffee cups instead of disposable ones. This not only reduces plastic waste but also encourages the consumption of local water and beverages, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transporting bottled drinks.

Eco-friendly travel gear - Choose travel gear made from sustainable materials by sustainable brands. This includes backpacks, luggage, and clothing made from recycled or organic materials, which reduces the demand for new resources and supports a circular economy.

Solar-powered devices - Use solar-powered chargers and gadgets to charge electronic devices reduce energy demand and limit greenhouse gases. These devices harness renewable energy, reducing the reliance on electricity generated from fossil fuels when traveling.

Solid toiletries - Switch to solid toiletries like shampoo bars, soap bars, and toothpaste tablets. These products often come in minimal or biodegradable packaging and are more lightweight and travel-friendly than their liquid counterparts.

Reusable shopping bags - Carry foldable reusable shopping bags to avoid the need for single-use plastic bags when shopping for groceries or souvenirs.

Bamboo or metal straws - Use bamboo or metal straws instead of plastic straws, which are a significant source of plastic pollution in oceans and waterways. You could even consider traveling with your own. 

Digital tickets and check-ins - Opt for digital boarding passes, tickets, and hotel check-ins to reduce paper waste.

Portable water filters - For travelers visiting destinations where tap water is not drinkable, using portable water filters or purifying tablets can be a sustainable alternative to buying bottled water.

Eco-friendly sunscreen - Choose reef-safe sunscreen that doesn't contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can damage coral reefs and marine life.

Cloth towels and napkins - Carrying a small cloth towel or napkin can reduce reliance on disposable paper towels and napkins.

👉 Learn more about recycling and waste in our blog. 

Traveling far from home is no excuse for forgetting basic etiquette regarding environmental responsibility. For example, a WWF report highlighted that beach tourism contributed to 52% of the waste found in the Mediterranean Sea. Such statistics underscore the importance of individual actions in combating waste production during travel.

Embracing the future of responsible travel

As we look towards a more sustainable future, the importance of eco-responsible tourism in 2024 cannot be overstated. By adopting practices such as supporting local economies, choosing green transportation, consuming local products, and minimizing waste production, we as travelers can have a huge impact when it comes to preserving the cultural and natural heritage of our destinations. This shift in travel behavior not only enriches our own experiences but also ensures that the wonders of the world remain intact for future generations to explore and cherish.

At Greenly we can help you to assess your company’s carbon footprint, and then give you the tools you need to cut down on emissions. Why not request a free demo with one of our experts - no obligation or commitment required. 

If reading this article has inspired you to consider your company’s own carbon footprint, Greenly can help. Learn more about Greenly’s carbon management platform here. 

The iPhone 14 will be released on September 16. But do you know the exact carbon footprint of an iPhone?

What is the Carbon Footprint of the iPhone?

<p id="">On September 16, the iPhone 14, the newest model of the iconic Apple range – will be released. An umpteenth version of a smartphone that is now part of our daily lives… To the point of forgetting that this small device in our pockets and bags also emits CO2.</p><p id="">What exactly is the iPhone’s carbon footprint? With the release of the new Apple’s smartphone, we decided to focus on its environmental impact. </p><p id="">‍</p><figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center" data-rt-max-width=""><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/6232f79b68d15d3d9b69c096/631f4d551a9d3252ea0ff490_empreinte-carbone-iphone.jpg" loading="lazy" id="" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure><p id="">‍</p><h2 id="">What is the carbon footprint of an iPhone?</h2><blockquote id="">According to the Product Environmental Report published by Apple in September 2021, <strong id="">an iPhone emits a total of 64kg CO2e</strong>.</blockquote><p id="">It is important to note that this figure was specifically calculated for a model of iPhone 13, with a storage capacity of 128 GB. </p><p id="">This total amount of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions was also estimated using the Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) method. Concretely, this means that the total amount of emissions announced in this report normally includes all the emissions generated by an iPhone, throughout its life cycle (from the extraction of raw materials to destruction).</p><p id="">To compare, the carbon footprint of an iPhone 12 with the same storage capacity (128 GB) was 72kg CO2e.</p><blockquote id="">👉 To learn more about the Life Cycle Analysis of a product, do not hesitate to <a href="https://greenly.earth/en-us/blog/company-guide/everything-you-need-to-know-about-lca-life-cycle-analysis-in-2022" id="">read our article</a>.</blockquote><p id="">‍</p><h2 id="">Where do iPhone’s CO2 emissions come from?</h2><p id="">According to the report published by Apple:</p><ul id=""><li id="">81% of emissions would be related to production (extraction, production and transport of raw materials, but also manufacture, transport and assembly, plus packaging);</li></ul><ul id=""><li id="">16% of emissions would be usage-related (energy use is simulated in a variety of ways, for example, by modeling daily battery charging or the use of video or music applications);</li></ul><ul id=""><li id="">2% of emissions would be related to the transportation of the final product (air and marine, from the manufacturing site to regional distribution platforms);</li></ul><ul id=""><li id="">Less than 1% of emissions would be related to the “end-of-life” of the product (transportation from collection points to recycling sites, and the energy needed to separate and shred elements).</li></ul><p id="">‍</p><blockquote id="">💬 These calculations are made knowing that the estimated the duration of use for an iPhone is around 3 to 4 years (in accordance with the user data collected by the brand on similar products). In addition, the transport of products from distribution points to final customers was modeled using average distances. Finally, local differences in the mix feeding of power grids must be considered.</blockquote><blockquote id="">👉 For more details on the iPhone 13 “Product Environmental Report”, you can find it on Apple’s website by <a href="https://www.apple.com/environment/pdf/products/iphone/iPhone_13_PER_Sept2021.pdf" id="">clicking here</a>.</blockquote><p id="">‍</p><h2 id="">Why is the carbon footprint announced in the iPhone 13 “Product Environmental Report” underestimated?</h2><p id="">Considering the 64kg of CO2e announced by Apple, only 10kg would come from smartphone’s usage – more specifically, from charging the terminal. </p><p id="">An obvious question arises: what about the use of mobile data? </p><p id="">The Greenly experts investigated: given the data on the emissions induced by the 4G network in France, while considering an average mobile data consumption of 45 GB each month, <strong id="">50kg of CO2 would need to be added to the figures published in the Apple’s study</strong>. 👀</p><blockquote id="">Contrary to the estimates provided by the brand, <strong id="">the carbon emissions related to the use phase of an iPhone would amount to 60kg of CO2e</strong>.</blockquote><p id="">Besides, the colossal carbon footprint of data centers (physical infrastructures allowing to store and share data) should also be considered in this calculation, as they are terribly energy-intensive – because of their electricity consumption or need for air conditioning, for example.</p><p id="">Hosted internally, Apple’s iCloud service claims to be 67% carbon neutral. However, it should be noted that this estimate only takes into account scopes 1 and 2. While scope 3 is an essential variable in the calculation of the carbon footprint of any entity.</p><p id="">‍</p><figure id="" class="w-richtext-figure-type-image w-richtext-align-center" data-rt-type="image" data-rt-align="center"><div id=""><img src="https://uploads-ssl.webflow.com/6232f79b68d15d3d9b69c096/631f4d010b74027b5ab6eff1_iphone.jpg" loading="lazy" id="" width="auto" height="auto"></div></figure><p id="">‍</p><h2 id="">What is the carbon footprint of data stream?</h2><p id="">What about all the mobile data that we stream 24/7? <a href="https://t.sidekickopen01.com/s3t/c/5/f18dQhb0S7kF8c7YpqVRv9Zw59hl3kW7_k2841CXdp3VP1dqC2S0VpZW2bzNMH8H1z0h101?te=W3R5hFj4cm2zwW4mKLS-3ZWVWBW3K2-zv1JxwY5W1Lw3rh45LM6yW1LxLBV3K77BcF1GzP7WmLtP1&si=8000000005495252&pi=327ca282-180c-4621-bbc6-bb329182ee71" target="_blank" id="">Greenly</a>'s data science team computed the real weight of that data consumption</p><ul id=""><li id="">Over the course of the iPhone lifespan (3-4 years according to Apple), network use accounts for 2.16TB of mobile data. </li><li id="">Applying standard network emission factors, the electricity consumption of 4G or 5G networks is equal to 512 kWh of electricity.</li><li id="">In the US, 1 kWh of electricity represents 427g of CO2e on average. in France, 1 kWh represents 60g of CO2 per kWH because the energy is less carbon intensive.</li><li id="">So 512 kWH represents 220 kg of CO2e in the US, and roughly 50 kg of CO2 in France.</li><li id="">To this total, we would need to add 32.4 KG of CO2e related to the amortization of the mobile network for this amount of data.</li></ul><p id="">‍</p><h2 id="">What about the iPhone 14? </h2><p id="">This week, <a href="https://t.sidekickopen01.com/s3t/c/5/f18dQhb0S7kF8c7YpqVRv9Zw59hl3kW7_k2841CXdp3VP1dqC2S0VpZW2bzNMH8H1z0h101?te=W3R5hFj4cm2zwW4mKLS-3ZWVWBW3K2-zv1JxwY5W1Lw3rh45LM6yF1LvdzRmLcq1&si=8000000005495252&pi=327ca282-180c-4621-bbc6-bb329182ee71" target="_blank" id="">Apple</a> launched its new iPhone 14. </p><blockquote id="">💡 With 90M units hitting the market this year - at an average footprint of 61kg of CO2e per iPhone, the projected total footprint of the launch is 5,5 MT of CO2.</blockquote><p id="">Here is the carbon weight of each step of the phone's existence:</p><ul id=""><li id="">Components Sourcing &amp; Manufacturing: 79%</li><li id="">Shipping: 2%</li><li id="">Usage: 18%</li><li id="">End of Life: &lt;1%</li></ul><p id="">‍</p><p id="">According to the <a href="https://www.apple.com/environment/pdf/products/iphone/iPhone_14_PER_Sept2022.pdf" id="">new Apple’s Product Environmental Report</a>, using the iPhone makes up 18% of the total footprint over the product's life cycle (3-4 years). &nbsp;</p><blockquote id="">🧐 But is Apple's carbon footprint estimation correct? </blockquote><p id="">The answer is 'no'. <a href="https://t.sidekickopen01.com/s3t/c/5/f18dQhb0S7kF8c7YpqVRv9Zw59hl3kW7_k2841CXdp3VP1dqC2S0VpZW2bzNMH8H1z0h101?te=W3R5hFj4cm2zwW4mKLS-3ZWVWBW3K2-zv1JxwY5W1Lw3rh45LM6yW1LxLBV3K77BcF1GzP7WmLtP1&si=8000000005495252&pi=327ca282-180c-4621-bbc6-bb329182ee71" target="_blank" id="">Greenly</a> experts estimate that Apple is missing 80% of the iPhone's total climate impact. &nbsp;</p><blockquote id="">👉 Indeed, regarding the figures that should be considered on data stream, the real total footprint of the iPhone 14 should be 313kg over 4 years.</blockquote><p>However, it is important to underline that iPhone's carbon footprint is still decreasing.</p><p id=""><a href="https://t.sidekickopen01.com/s3t/c/5/f18dQhb0S7kF8c7YpqVRv9Zw59hl3kW7_k2841CXdp3VP1dqC2S0VpZW2bzNMH8H1z0h101?te=W3R5hFj4cm2zwW4mKLS-3ZWVWBW3K2-zv1JxwY5W1Lw3rh45LM6yF1LvdzRmLcq1&si=8000000005495252&pi=327ca282-180c-4621-bbc6-bb329182ee71" target="_blank" id=""><strong>Apple</strong></a><strong> is doing a much better job than most smartphone companies in disclosing its footprint.</strong> But if the most admired company in the world wants to set the exemple, it needs to go all the way and report its full indirect emissions (not just upstream, but also downstream emissions).</p><p>‍</p><h2 id="">3 tips to reduce the carbon footprint of your iPhone </h2><h3 id="">1. Using your iPhone responsibly</h3><p id="">One figure? On average, each French person stores between 10,000 and 50,000 emails. However, this data is not stored in a vacuum: it is stored in data centers, which generate 0.3% of global greenhouse gas emissions.</p><p id="">The right thing to do? Regularly sort your mailbox, keeping only the messages that are truly worth archiving.</p><p id="">If you want to significtly reduce the footprint created by your iPhone, <strong id="">try watching videos in moderate quality (480p) while using Wi-Fi, instead of streaming HD (1080p) on your 4G data</strong>.</p><p id="">‍</p><h3 id="">2. Get your iPhone fixed instead of discarded</h3><p id="">Unfortunately, we tend to believe that a smartphone should be changed at the slightest harm. </p><p id="">But it is not true.</p><p id="">Battery problem? Cracked screen? Change of camera? So many problems that can be handled thanks to repair shops. Do not hesitate to seek the advice of a professional!</p><p id="">Also, if you think you have the tools for this type of repair, you can also try to do it yourself. Many guides and tutorials are available. 💡</p><p id="">‍</p><h3 id="">3. Buy a refurbished iPhone</h3><p id="">If you want to contribute to reducing the environmental impact of our digital society, <strong id="">favoring the purchase of a </strong><a href="https://greenly.earth/en-us/blog/ecology-news/what-is-the-carbon-footprint-of-a-refurbished-phone" id=""><strong id="">refurbished phone</strong></a><strong id=""> is the best thing to do</strong>.</p><p id="">In addition to fighting global warming, you will save a significant amount of money – a refurbished smartphone costs on average 30 to 50% less than a new model.</p><blockquote id="">Be careful not to confuse a refurbished phone with a used phone. ⚠️ Unlike the latter, the refurbished phone is used, but it has been checked, repaired if necessary, and has had its memory erased. For this reason, it is 5 to 20% more expensive than a used phone, as it did not undergo a complete revision. </blockquote><p id="">‍</p><p id="">‍</p><p id=""><strong

In this article, we'll explain in depth what plastic is, why plastic is bad for the environment and the ocean, and solutions to mitigate the use and overall impact of plastic.

Why is Plastic Bad for the Environment?

Plastic is a material that is deeply intertwined with our modern lives. Plastic exists in nearly every industry, from food to cars to footwear to space equipment – but we talk about it as both being incredibly useful and dangerous for species worldwide, as it contributes to plastic waste, plastic pollution, plastic debris, plastic packaging waste, and plastic waste generation. The plastics industry is notorious for being bad for the environment.

💡 What is plastic, and why is the manufacturing process for plastic produced makes harmful to the earth and human health?

Plastic is a material that can be shaped or molded easily and can be synthetic, semisynthetic, or natural – which can then be molded into a wide variety of materials. 

💡 Plastic is extremely malleable due to the fact that it's made up of polymers, making it easier to cut through in addition to it's low melting point. 

At the molecular level, polymers are long chains of individual monomer links which bond easily to each  other. Polymers are also so bulky that they don't stack together well. This results in a compound that:

Once a completely natural product, much of today's plastic is man-made and largely dependent upon fossil fuels. From polymers to nurdles, learn how plastic is created and what we can do to slow the lasting repercussions this material will have on both our planet and our lives.
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Plastics 101 | National Geographic

How is plastic used in the plastics industry?

💡 In comparison to other materials, such as metal or glass, plastic is usually lighter and more flexible – seeing as plastic is able to achieve a feasible glass transition temperature (Tg) which allows for soft, flexible, and even rubber like state materials to be made. 

This makes global plastic production particularly useful for a wide range of purposes, and is precisely why the plastic industry has found so much success in creating beverage containers for several other industries, such as with:

plastic additives or other commodity plastics (such as plastic films used for new containers or shipping products like food packaging)

👉 However, the problem with fully synthetic plastic is that it doesn't contain any molecules from our natural environment – meaning that engineering plastics like these requires even more industrial activity, which results in even more emissions.

Luckily, most plastic items are recyclable – seeing as plastic can be melted and then reshaped, so most plastics can be heated until they can be formed into something else. Knowing this about the recycling process helps explain why it's bad to throw a banana peel in your recycling bin – it could get heated in with the plastic, rendering the reformed banana-plastic useless.  

Where do plastic materials come from and how is plastic made?

Plastic can be made in a variety of ways with a variety of materials. These materials can come from natural sources like latex from tree sap, tar, and amber. However, it is much cheaper and easier to make plastic from fossil fuels like crude oil and natural gas, partly because our industrial system is based on these fuels.

Intense heat or pressure is required to shape the plastic into something functional. For example, crude oil is heated in a furnace in the refining process before it is distilled into lighter compounds. Through a process called polymerization, the light compounds are connected into polymers either with the addition of a catalyst or the removal of water.   

The table below will depict how much plastic used according to each industry:

<!DOCTYPE html>
<html lang="en">
<head>
    <meta charset="UTF-8">
    <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0">
    <title>Global Plastic Waste Production</title>
    <style>
        table {
            width: 50%;
            border-collapse: collapse;
            font-family: Arial, sans-serif;
            margin: 20px 0;
            font-size: 14px;
        }
        th, td {
            border: 1px solid #dddddd;
            text-align: left;
            padding: 8px;
        }
        th {
            background-color: #f2f2f2;
        }
    </style>
</head>
<body>
    <table>
        <tr>
            <th>Waste Type</th>
            <th>Global Plastic Waste Production (million tonnes)</th>
        </tr>
        <tr>
            <td>Packaging</td>
            <td>155.9</td>
        </tr>
        <tr>
            <td>Consumer Goods</td>
            <td>47.0</td>
        </tr>
        <tr>
            <td>Automotive</td>
            <td>47.9</td>
        </tr>
        <tr>
            <td>Textiles</td>
            <td>42.9</td>
        </tr>
        <tr>
            <td>Construction</td>
            <td>21.6</td>
        </tr>
        <tr>
            <td>Electrical/Electronic Devices</td>
            <td>15.9</td>
        </tr>
        <tr>
            <td>Other</td>
            <td>67.7</td>
        </tr>
    </table>
</body>
</html>

Every part of the “plastic life cycle” is harmful for the environment and creates pollution. 

Here just a few of the ways that the plastic pollution crisis has come to be:

Extraction of Fossil Fuels – Plastics exhibit enormous potential to continue emitting insurmountable amounts of greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere, as they currently account for over 3% of global GHG emissions. For example, it is estimated that people throw away 300 million tons of plastic every year – of which ends up in the landfill and contributes to even more greenhouse gas emissions.

👉  Extracting the fossil fuel required to create new plastics has negative impacts on local ecosystems by disturbing wildlife, polluting ground water systems, and causing oil spills in the ocean.

Production of Plastics – This refers to the mechanical properties, electrical equipment, high temperature, and how plastic is molded repeatedly before it can be used for commercial purposes – such as a water bottle cap or plastic mold for product packaging. The production process releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, exacerbating human-induced climate change and the distribution component plastic's life cycle. As goods produced around the world are intended for international markets, more fossil fuels need to be burned to deliver the products.

Distribution – The distribution of and use of plastic products alone contributes to poor environmental conditions and has a profound impact on any nearby marine environment. For instance, the United States is responsible for generating over 35 million tones of plastic – but only about 9% of that plastic gets recycled. And in that process, enormous amounts of energy, often generated from fossil fuels, need to be used to heat the plastic so that it can be remolded for new use.

💡 About 12% of the plastic produced ends up being incinerated. The fumes from both recycling and incineration add more greenhouse gases to the atmosphere – and then, of course, the rest is plastic pollution.

Plastic Trash – This refers to the consistent poor disposal, recycling, incineration, and litter of various plastics such as polyvinyl chloride – which is the industrial-like-strength plastic used for wire cables and medical purposes. As a whole, we have produced a striking 9.2 billion tons of plastic since 1950, with production doubling each year on average. The most long-lasting plastics can take up to 500 years to decompose. In addition to this, a wide variety of different chemicals are added during the production process depending on the use of the plastic – which can further impact air quality and air pollution.

About 40% of plastic produced are single-use plastics – they have an intended short lifespan. Think of plastic bags, packaged water, to-go containers and plastic ware. They all often end up in landfills or in nature. 

👉 Therefore, how much plastic waste is produced is irrelevant, as plastic waste inputs damage to the planet even if plastic consumption is reduced.

Plastic, which comes in many shapes and sizes, can end up polluting nearly every corner of our world – bodies of water, ecosystems, and our atmosphere. 

Unsurprisingly, plastic ends up in and around our oceans, which harms marine life, our natural environment, and contributes to ocean pollution. Due to gravity, water collects in rivers and lakes, winding its way to the ocean.

 Many aquatic animals consume plastic as they believe it to be prey, and as a result – we are eating microplastics in the fish we eat. 

💡Ultimately, plastic threatens ecosystems, lowers biodiversity, and can even change the flow of nutrients between plants and animals.

As plastic is worn down by seawater and sand, it creates microplastics – which refer to plastic bits smaller than 5 millimeters (0.2 inches). Microplastics are more pervasive than larger plastics – they have been found in the guts of plankton: one of the ocean's smallest living creatures.  

Microplastics also show up in sediment layers of the ocean floor. The accumulation by year is on pace with the historical trend of plastic production worldwide.  

👉 However, it is important to note that even larger plastics have been found in the depths of the ocean. For instance, when buoyant plastics such as water bottles and plastic bags are in the water for long enough– algae and other life grows on them which weighs them down enough to sink to the ocean floor.  

Solutions to reduce plastic pollution & plastic usage

Unfortunately, recycling plastic isn't all what it's chalked up to be – seeing as it's not an efficient use of energy – and not as much plastic get recycled as you may think.

According to an investigation, the U.S. has been shipping hundreds of thousands of tons of plastic to  other countries, including developing countries that are poorly regulated. Some of these countries include  Bangladesh, Senegal, and Laos – where the U.S. can find relaxed environmental regulation and cheap labor to handle the grueling recycling process.

However, much of the American plastic that is transported abroad for recycling cannot be processed. This was revealed with China and Hong Kong in 2015, as they received more than half of the plastic that Americans placed in the recycle bin. 

👉 Regardless, the majority of this load of plastic ended up in a landfill due to contamination of the plastic. As a result, China now only accepts plastic that is well cleaned. This is why waste management systems should seek to rectify the way plastic waste is created and overall plastic collection, as most plastic is ended up in landfill.

Some places have turned towards banning certain types of plastic in order to limit its negative environmental impact and encourage the government to employ more stringent legislation for recycling. 

For instance, California recently passed a law to eliminate single-use plastics. By 2032, all packaging in California must be recyclable or compostable – as plastic pollution facts are encouraging greater climate legislation.

Not only has Canada passed a similar law to California, but they also have a plan to reach zero plastic waste by 2030. Also, India has their own ban on single-use plastics. They elected to ban ear buds in addition to straws, cigarette packets, cutlery, and more.

👉 Overall, banning the use of single-use plastics – could help to mitigate the colossal environmental impact created by plastic. 

Seeing as plastic bans won't get to the root of the problem, it's important for us as a society to tackle over excessive consumerism behavior that aids in the negative impact created by plastic. 

💡 This will require innovative solutions to create, use and dispose of items without the use of plastic and reduce the need for single-use items.

Here are just a few suggestions to reduce your single-plastic usage:

Shop at bulk food stores and use ration containers for dry goods

Bring a durable container with you when you get take-out food or when you need a to-go  container at a restaurant

Wash with a bar of soap rather than liquid soap

👉 Changing your habits to reduce your plastic usage will not only create a positive environmental impact but also you will be kind on  your pocket – as you'll save money on plastic bags and plastic water bottles in your everyday, now "greener" lifestyle.

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How did we get to a world full of plastic? - BBC

Additional solutions to reduce plastic pollution

Scientists have found some solutions to break down plastic without heat and are working hard to   implement them, such as via the use of microbes to help decompose plastic at a more rapid pace.

💡 Wax worms and mealworms can break down plastics into compost that can be used as fertilizer. There  are some microbes that can decompose plastics in mere hours, rather than the usual years needed.

Until our society can ween off of its current dependency on plastic, we can turn to natural sources of rubber such as a rubber tree – as it produces latex, which can be used like plastic. In addition to this, amber has latex which can also be used like plastic, and it is sometimes found while mining for other minerals.

Of course, these solutions do not solve the root of the problem regarding the excess consumerism present in our society – as plastic is all-around energy intensive at every step of its lifecycle. 

Therefore, it is crucial to change our behaviors and encourage governments to ban the most harmful plastics – but for the time being, we can all do our part to reduce the amount of plastic we use in our everyday lives. 

If learning about the negative impacts of plastic on the environment has encouraged you to want to do more to limit your impact on the environment, we can help.

At Greenly, we can help you to assess your company’s carbon footprint, and then give you the tools you need to cut down on emissions. We offer a free demo for you to better understand our platform and all that it has to offer – including assistance with boosting supplier engagement, personalized assistance, and new ways to involve your employees.

Learn more about Greenly’s carbon management platform here. 

This article explores the primary causes of global warming, its effects on the planet, and the urgent need for action.

What is Global Warming?

Global warming is a pressing issue with increasingly visible impacts. Recent history has shown us devastating wildfires in California and Canada, catastrophic flooding in Pakistan, and unprecedented heatwaves across Europe. These events are clear indicators of significant environmental disruption.

Contrary to what some skeptics might say, global warming involves more than just rising temperatures. It is a growing threat to all species, especially humans.

👉 This article explores the primary causes of global warming, its effects on the planet, and the urgent need for action.

Global warming could do more than just melt polar ice.  It could change our maps, and displace people from cities and tropical islands.
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