Dear ________,

I hope you don’t mind me writing to tell you the reasons for why I am not joining you on the upcoming trip. As you may have seen on social media, or heard if I told you in person, that I have pledged not to fly in 2020. This is an important cause for me to take on, as it is the biggest way to reduce my carbon footprint. The decision to give up flying is one that has taken a great deal of deliberation and the concession that there are certain things I have to give up. But at the end of the day I determined that what I gave up is worth it for the things I gain from not flying. Airborne illnesses, long wait times, and the entire concept of ‘flight anxiety’ are things that I can now avoid as I choose to stay on the ground.

I am sure you have noticed the news coverage regarding both the climate strikes, and climate change. People are beginning to wake up to the dangers that lie before us, and are demanding action. Individual actions alone cannot save the planet--policies and economic shifts will be key to combating climate change. However, that does not mean that individual actions cannot also create change; by joining thousands of other people I feel like I am making a positive change in the world. Change must occur from the top to the very bottom, and making the decision to reduce my carbon footprint by giving up flying is one way in which I have decided to make change.

In addition, staying on the ground will likely increase my appreciation of the natural world that surrounds me. I look forward to experiencing nature from this level, and moving through it will be improved once I no longer view myself as above it.

I know that this decision will limit the trips I can make with you, but it is one that I stand by.

Sincerely,

___________