Flight. Drag racing. Radio controlled vehicles. Monster trucks, motocross... the list goes on and on. What list am I making? A list of activities or hobbies that could be considered by some to be environmentally irresponsible. Why? Let's examine some of them, starting with flight.

Much has been made regarding high-profile travelers, such as Al Gore and Mark Fields of Ford using jets to travel back and forth across the world, or even just our own country. Some believe that using systems already in place, such as by bus, boat or train, is more environmentally responsible. But, that is not where I was thinking of going with this editorial. I am thinking more along the lines of hobbyist flight, for instance ultralights. Some have been in love with the idea of flight for some time, ever since the Wright brothers proved it was possible. You know, environmentally speaking, there might not be anything wrong with it. Consider our past discussions of solar-powered flight and electric powered flight. Don't discount hang-gliding and parachuting. I have never done any of them, but I have heard from many that they offer an experience unlike any other. Also, there has been talk as of late about using biofuels as aircraft fuels.

Click past the break to read more about upcoming green hobbies, and submit your own in the comments!

Yesterday, we ran a post about solar powered flight. It was pointed out in the comments that solar flight, while relatively new, has already been partially proven. In fact, we have covered some of those points before. But, is solar the only way to go for a zero-emissions flying thrill ride? Nope, you are already probably familiar with hang gliders and, if you have seen the Mythbusters episode, baloons, or even "leaping larry". But, those are not powered, you say. Right you are, but what about ultralight electric powered flying machines? As it turns out, there just may be. Check out ElectricPPG.com - electric powered paragliders, "The quiet, affordable future of foot-launched flight." Many of the issues discussed on this site are the same as for automobiles, light-weight and high output batteries and motors being the keys for successful operation. Perhaps combining these with some of the higher-output solar cells would make for some interesting entertainment for the wealthy. For the rest of us, they sure do look fun!

[Source: ElectricPPG.com, thanks again, Kert]