I wanted to share this interesting graphic from 'information is beautiful'.
It beautifully illustrates the extent of european aviation emissions compared to the Icelandic Eyjafjallajokull volcanic eruption.
What will it take to make people realise the impact that aviation is having on the environment? How long will it be considered 'normal' to fly thousands of miles each year for a holiday?
The British Isles has some of the most amazing scenery I have ever witnessed, yet I know more people that have been to South America than I who have visited the wonders of the Scottish Highlands and Islands.
Brits are so fortunate that we have access to an incredibly large rail network- europe is on our doorstep and this is beautifully explained by 'The man in Seat 61'.
I know the volcanic ash is causing unknown amounts of grief for people all over the world (let's ignore the fact that a friend of mine is stuck in St. Lucia with all expenses being paid) and they all have my deepest sympathy. But rather than curse unstoppable natural events, perhaps it is worth appreciating the various advantages of alternative methods of travel.
It is at least some food for thought....
I share your worries about the aviation emissions and its impact in the environment. However, there are so many things which are part of our so called 'regular' life, our comfort life which have to be changed but nobody is interested in touching them... there are in most cases part of the so called rich world status and nobody wants to gets out that train.
ReplyDeleteMy dear, it is just a portion of the world population using the air traffic, those with economic possibilities not those going to search for water or commuting to work. I guess your friend in St. Lucia was not forced to go because he was starving, surviving a flooding, earthquake, famine, or a war someone far way thought it will be the business of the century.
I am glad to see you are in love with the beauties of your country; you have reason to be proud of them. Comparing the English Islands with the South America will be like comparing tea with coffee, you simply cannot compare them, and there are two distinctive things with their own personality.
I hope you are not one of those spoiled children who spend their gap year travelling through South America like a parcel just to say you were there too. South America has some of the most beautiful paradise; nearly destroy by greediness and lack to respect to the people living there and to their environment.
M Jimenez