It's become quite common for corporations to speak in 'green', but individuals are the ones who can enact change. Calgary Co-op Travel is committed to protecting the environment wherever we travel, and abide by the 3 R's in this order - Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.

Reducing waste should be the number one goal for travelers. Here are five simple tips that can set you on the reduction path.

• Pack a coffee mug and beverage container. Ask for your coffee in your own travel mug and reduce coffee cup waste. Fill your beverage container with local water (if suitable for drinking), or buy large size beverages and use your personal beverage container when needed. You not only reduce waste by not buying several small size containers, you save money by buying larger quantities.

• Bring your own cotton carry bags for groceries and other purchases, and reduce throwaway plastic bags. These are also good for keeping your shoes separated from your clothing, and also act as a dirty laundry bag.

• Purchase bio-degradable soap, shampoo, and laundry detergent prior to leaving as these may not be readily available at your destination. Reusable containers can be used to bring only what you require for the duration of your tour, thereby reducing additional weight and space in your luggage.

• Bring sealable containers that can be used for snacks, lunches and leftovers. These are great when hiking or biking, train or bus journeys, or just day tripping around. Buy snacks in bulk and bring only portions you will need for the day.

• Walk, bike or utilize public transit whenever possible. This not only saves you money and is environmentally friendly, it also provides the best opportunity to experience the culture and meet the locals. Many destinations also have great transit connections from the airport to the city centre, eliminating the need to take expensive taxis.