COLUMN: In recent years, flying has become a focal point of criticism in the Netherlands. Online and in the media, it’s often portrayed as the major issue contributing to climate change. But what if we’re tackling the wrong problem? What if we’re focusing on the wrong debate?
The Impact of Having Children vs. Flying
Research shows that having children has a much larger environmental impact than most people realize. The NPO documentary “Over Bevolking” and a comprehensive article by The Guardian clearly illustrate the scale of this difference. According to these sources, having one child is 36 times worse for the environment annually than a return flight from Amsterdam to New York.
Let’s break that down:
If you decide not to have children, you could theoretically take a transatlantic flight every week and still produce less CO₂ than having just one child.
The Taboo Around Having Fewer Children
And yet, no one talks about this. Why? Because discussions around children and overpopulation are seen as too sensitive. People feel personally attacked, and politicians avoid the topic for fear of alienating voters. Meanwhile, planes – and the travel industry – continue to take the brunt of the blame.
But is that fair? Absolutely not. The simple truth is that we should not only scrutinize aviation but also examine our consumption habits, population growth, and societal priorities.
What Does This Mean for the Travel Industry and the Environment?
Professionals in the travel industry understand the importance of travel: for economic development, international collaboration, and personal enrichment. Restricting air travel alone will not solve the climate crisis. Of course, we must continue to innovate and make air travel more sustainable, but it’s time to confront the facts.
We need to broaden the debate and tackle the bigger questions:
- How can we better manage population growth?
- How can we make global consumption patterns more sustainable?
- And how can we ensure that travel has a net positive impact on both people and the planet?
Are We Brave Enough to Have the Real Debate?
The discussion about having fewer children might be taboo, but it’s a necessary step if we truly want to combat climate change. Until then, it’s unfair to lay the entire blame on one sector – aviation.
Let’s work together, as travel professionals and environmental activists, to foster a more nuanced dialogue. The planet deserves no less.
Sources:
What do you think? How can we make the climate debate more balanced and effective? Share your thoughts in the comments!
