I calculated my carbon footprint in 2019 and found that 85% of my footprint came from flying. That sealed the deal. October 6, 2019 was the last time I flew in an airplane. And I plan on never flying again.
The climate crisis is an existential threat to all living things on this planet. So what do we have to do? We must stop burning fossil fuels as quickly as possible. One way to do that is to stop flying. I have chosen to live a low-carbon lifestyle because I understand the scale and the severity of the climate crisis. The climate is crumbling before our very eyes. So what do we do in a crisis? Act.
Furthermore, flying is inherently a justice issue. Rich people fly. Poor people can not. Rich people pollute the most. Poor people pay the climate consequences first and worst. Those facing the most extreme effects of the climate crisis are people of color, indigenous people, women, children, and those living in low-income communities.. Flying is not only a climate justice issue. It’s also a social justice and a racial justice issue.
I understand that I have many domains of privilege. And it is my responsibility to take action simply because I can.
What will your legacy be?
Dan Castrigano
Teacher, Connecticut, USA