Jet-setters flying through San Antonio International Airport (SAT) can now chip in to help preserve one of the city's most beloved natural features. On Earth Day, SAT announced a collaboration with The Good Traveler program and the San Antonio River Foundation to launch a unique carbon offset initiative aimed at travelers looking to lessen their environmental impact. The program encourages individuals to make tax-deductible donations toward local environmental efforts, effectively balancing out the carbon footprint of their journeys.
According to SAT's Sustainability Special Projects Manager, Breana Trevino, the choice of the San Antonio River Foundation as the beneficiary was no coincidence, "SAT chose to support the San Antonio River Foundation since the San Antonio River is a focal point for our culture, tourism, and community." Echoing this sentiment, Frates Seeligson, Director of the San Antonio River Foundation, told the press that the foundation is heavily invested in sustainability and river restoration ventures. He expressed gratitude for the partnership, "We are so appreciative to SAT and The Good Traveler for sharing our vision of inspiring stewardship of our most precious resource."
The news broke during an education fair at the airport which saw representatives from the city's Solid Waste Management Department, Parks & Recreation Department, Texas Master Gardeners, the San Antonio Zoo, and the Texas Master Naturalist – Alamo Area Chapter, sharing insights on conservation and ecology with travelers. All this aimed at boosting awareness about protecting the local environment, particularly the vital waterway that threads through the city.
Enthusiastic flyers can visit The Good Traveler's website to contribute to the cause, where their donations will support ongoing conservation projects managed by the River Foundation. With a diverse array of community-based entities in attendance, including representatives from the City’s Solid Waste Management Department, travelers received a comprehensive look at how their donations will bolster local efforts. Seeligson sees the partnership with SAT and The Good Traveler as a means of uniting both tourists and residents, "Whether you are a visitor, or you call San Antonio home, the river brings us all together."
More information about this green initiative is available on The Good Traveler’s website.
