How to Go Green: Spring Break : TreeHugger

Spring Break Green Beach Sunglasses Photo
Image source: iStock

It's almost that time again. Can you feel it? Just a few more weeks left and then freedom, blessed, joyful, wonderful freedom -- at least for a week that is. But with everyone you know leaving responsibility (and sobriety?) behind, what's a green guy/gal to do? How do you chill out, relax, refresh, have a good time, and still not wreck the planet in the process? Is it possible to party on the beach without having to pay environmental penance with a boatload of carbon offsets? Over on Planet Green, the How to Go Green: Spring Break guide is here and just in time. Before you book your plane tickets or bum out because you have to miss out, let us help you out.

We've got tips on finding a locale, booking a place, scavenging some grub, partying, and also going alternative for the week. Got kids? No problem, because we have some tips to help keep the kiddo's busy and entertained for the week. Trying to save money? Why not? We've even got tips on being a "local tourist" that will help you enjoy your vacation and still feel like you "went somewhere."

Hop below the fold for a few tips to help this plan come together, or click on over to Planet Green to get the full story on How to Go Green: Spring Break

Spring Break Paradise for Five Suitcases Beachball Photo
Image source: iStock

Spring Break Road Trippin'

Interested in avoiding the harmful emissions from flight, but still itching to do SOMETHING for spring break? Why not try taking a road trip, but not just any road trip, how about "carpooling" as many people as you can to take with you. Better yet, consider renting a hybrid car/suv to save on gas as well as wear and tear on your old beater car. You've only got a week, so no reason to drive all the way across the country. Keeping it closer will also save you on gas and shrink your carbon footprint.

Get Your Hands Dirty

Just because everybody's doing it, doesn't mean you have to. Party in Cancun or South Padre, that is. In fact more and more students are putting their minds (and their hearts) to work during their vacation by helping someone else or the planet out. Community service offices and other study abroad offices on campus often organize trips around the state, country or even out of the country to do a little volunteering and discovery. You may even be able to score a few credits in the process. But don't think that you will have to clean toilets for 10 days in the backwoods. Plenty of projects include cool things, like rescuing sea turtles in Cancun, camping among the Redwoods or helping out Habitat for Humanity.

Spring Break Party Scene

Lest we forget, it's also possible to party like a rockstar and its getting easier all the time. Plenty of beer, wine and alcohol labels are now organic and/or biodynamic. We also offer a few tips on getting it on, green style, to keep you and your love safe, healthy and eco-friendly.

Who doesn't just love it when a good plan comes together? This party is just getting started. For more Spring Break planning tips, hop over to Planet Green's new guide for How to Go Green: Spring Break, and, while you're at it, check out the guide to Buy Green: Tanning Lotion, too.

More Green Spring Break Planning Tips
500 Places To See Before They Die
9 Questions To Ask Before Booking A Green Hotel
How to Go Green: Carbon Offsets
TH Forums: Advice on Eco-Resorts and Eco-Tourism