Take a Staycation

Cut down on carbon emissions and rediscover the joys of your own community, instead of jet setting.

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Photo: istock

By Brian Clark Howard

Take a "staycation" and cut down on carbon emissions while rediscovering the joys of your own community, instead of jet-setting off into the distance at the first sign of a holiday.

More than 38 million Americans planned to travel 50 miles or more on a recent three-day holiday weekend, and 84 percent planned to travel by car, according to AAA's annual survey. More planned to travel this year than last, even though the cost to travelers rose — reaching a household average of nearly $600.

Don't be average. Play local.

Many towns are chock-full of things to do: local flea markets, craft fairs, kid expos and other community events close to home. Local fairs can be a great way to find local artists, crafters and farmers to add to your personal directory of local producers.

Time off is also a great time to get outside. Connecting with the natural world can be inspirational, and a little inspiration goes a long way when you're faced with the tougher eco-decisions.

Don't forget to include the kids in your outdoor plans. The next generation of environmental stewards will care more about doing its part if it's a generation of hikers, growers and explorers. As kids spend more time with electronics and less time outdoors, some have even given a name to this affliction: Nature Deficit Disorder.

Or travel no further than your doorstep, and get some time in your garden, relax in your yard, or read a good book at home. You don't have to travel around the world to get some much-deserved down time.

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