An increasing number of
backpacking tourists seem to be taking advantage of carbon offset schemes, according to the Air Transport Users Council (ATUC).
Research by Ecotravelling.co.uk indicates that an air passenger travelling 4,000 miles will produce the equivalent of one tonne of CO2.
James Fremantle, industry affairs manager at the ATUC, explains that airlines have seen an increase in the number of people deciding to use carbon offset schemes.
He said: "I think BA, for example, are saying their numbers have doubled in the past few months, so they are starting to take off.
"Whether they slow down as people have less money is interesting to see."
A recent ruling by the European parliament requiring airlines to include charges in ticket advertisements could see a reduction in the number of cheap flights on offer to customers.
Whether eco-friendly tourists will opt for cheaper flights in the current financial climate or take advantage of carbon offsetting instead, remains to be seen.
Mr Fremantle notes that "very few people" choose to offset their flights, although numbers are growing.
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