I am a licensed civil engineer. I found out about the climate crisis in 2007 from an American Institute of Architects webinar training at work. I became aware that I wanted to avoid flying due to the large carbon emissions. I flew in 2007 to meet my sisters mid-continent, then we did the rest of the trip by car together. I flew to see family that lives far from us about 3 years ago.

Last year we drove to a family reunion that we would normally have flown to, taking two grandkids with us and dropping by Yellowstone on the way – both the 2007 and 2018 road trips were very memorable. I’m trying to drive less at work by using Skype when practical, and working from home when I can. I don’t really miss the vacation flights, but it is difficult to avoid flying to family events or when invited by friends to join them.

Although it can feel socially awkward, I feel that explaining to others why I am avoiding flying can help normalize it for climate reasons, especially if am not the only person in their circle of friends who is saying this. That will happen soon, if not already, as awareness grows. Thanks for setting up this website.