In his continuing efforts to create an open dialogue with the Muslim world, President Barrack Obama traveled to Saudi Arabia to meet with King Abdullah’s counsel. There the President delivered a much anticipated speech about the relationship between the United States and the followers of Islam. The speech addressed the “long history of friendship” between the US and Saudi Arabia and offered kind words to monarch Abdullah. Obama called the king wise and gracious, adding: "I am confident that working together that the United States and Saudi Arabia can make progress on a whole host of issues of mutual interest."
In turn, Abdullah expressed his "best wishes to the friendly American people who are represented by a distinguished man who deserves to be in this position."
Later in the week, the President plans to travel to Egypt where he will deliver a speech, which reportedly will encourage a stronger partnership between Americans and Muslims. The address reportedly will also touch on a variety of hot-button issues, including violent extremism, the threat of a nuclear Iran, and efforts to root out suspected terrorists in Afghanistan and Pakistan. Aides say Obama also will acknowledge that the Isreali-Palestinan conflict has been an important source of tension and passion while voicing his views on what all sides need to do to end the standoff.
Aides cautioned that Obama was not out to break new policy ground in his Cairo speech, and explain that the president is not expecting quick results, even though the speech will be distributed as widely as possible. This trip still marks the initial efforts of President Obama’s long term peace plans with the Middle East.
As President Obama invests in the future wellbeing of the US by reaching a hand of diplomacy to the Middle East, it is important for us at home to do our part in ensuring a better tomorrow. A great way to do this while traveling is to purchase carbon credits. A flight similar to the President’s (from Washington DC to Saudi Arabia) generates about 1.8 tons of carbon per person. The current price for a 1 ton carbon credit is $25. A person traveling to Saudi Arabia could offset their carbon footprint for only $50. To calculate the size of your flight’s carbon footprint.
Tips for Carbon Neutral Travels
Travel with budget airlines to offset carbon credit cost
Budget Airlines often charge for each piece of checked luggage and enforce strict weight limits. How to cut this cost:
- Bring only the essential items need for your trip.
- Bring food instead of purchasing heavily packaged airport food. This saves money and will make you the envy of the plane. Enjoy your home-cooked meal. Your carbon positive neighbors will have to make do with their peanuts.
Remember to use your savings toward carbon credits! This is an easy, inexpensive path to a better tomorrow.
Purchase carbon credits here!