Sustainable Business Travel: Introduction
One critical aspect gaining prominence in the business Net Zero transition is Sustainable Business Travel. This is happening as organisations increasingly recognise the need to curtail the carbon footprint associated with corporate journeys.
This week Play It Green takes a look at sustainable business travel and provides a guide on what to think about and some of the research around this topic. So, if you are keen to reduce your business footprint, read on for information that will help you on your journey!
Sustainable Business Travel: Choosing Green Transportation
Opting for eco-friendly transportation, such as trains over flights and electric or hybrid vehicles, significantly reduces carbon emissions.
Trains are known to be one of the most energy-efficient modes of transportation, emitting fewer greenhouse gases per passenger mile compared to planes.
According to the International Energy Agency, trains produce only about 7% of the emissions per passenger as short-haul flights.
Sustainable Business Travel: Staying Responsibly
The choice of accommodations plays a crucial role in Sustainable Business Travel.
Opting for eco-conscious hotels that prioritise energy efficiency, waste reduction, and water conservation helps mitigate the environmental impact of travel.
These hotels often implement sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy sources, minimising single-use plastics and local sourcing.
This aligns with global efforts to reduce the hospitality industry’s carbon footprint.
Sustainable Business Travel: Dining Responsibly
When dining out during business travel, choosing small local chains or independent restaurants positively impacts the local economy and environment.
Local restaurants typically source their ingredients locally, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation.
Additionally, supporting local businesses contributes to community resilience and economic sustainability.
According to a study by the New Economics Foundation, money spent locally is more likely to stay within the community, creating a ripple effect of economic benefits.
Sustainable Business Travel: Embracing Digital Meetings
Meetings and conferences are integral to corporate life, often necessitating travel.
Embracing technology solutions, such as virtual meetings and webinars, offers a pragmatic solution.
According to a study by the Carbon Trust, virtual meetings can reduce carbon emissions by up to 90% compared to traditional face-to-face meetings.
This not only cuts down on the environmental impact but also presents a cost-effective alternative for businesses.
You can even go a step further by using more sustainable video conferencing options.
Sustainable Business Travel: Sustainable Tourism Practices
Encouraging employees to engage in sustainable practices during their stay is crucial.
Simple actions, such as using reusable water bottles and opting for local and sustainable products, collectively contribute to a more sustainable travel experience.
The World Tourism Organisation estimates that tourism contributes to about 5% of global CO2 emissions.
Adopting sustainable tourism practices helps businesses play a part in mitigating this impact.
Sustainable Business Travel: Comprehensive Sustainability Policies
To authentically reduce the business footprint, organisations must adopt a comprehensive sustainability policy.
Integrating eco-friendly practices including sustainable travel into the corporate culture ensures a holistic approach to sustainability.
According to a report by Nielsen, 73% of millennials are willing to spend more on sustainable products.
Implementing sustainability policies not only aligns with environmental goals but also resonates positively with the preferences of the modern workforce.
Sustainable Business Travel: Rebalancing Unavoidable Flights
While efforts should be made to minimise travel, if unavoidable, flights can be offset through nature-based solutions.
Investing in projects that promote reforestation or conservation not only helps offset carbon emissions but also has added social impacts.
For instance, an EU study published in Nature Climate Change suggests that nature-based solutions could provide over one-third of the cost-effective climate mitigation needed by 2030.
Businesses can contribute to these solutions, creating a positive impact on both the environment and local communities.
Sustainable Business Travel: Be the Change
In conclusion, Sustainable Business Travel is not merely a trend but a necessity in the contemporary business landscape.
By making conscientious choices, such as opting for trains, staying at eco-conscious hotels, and supporting local businesses when dining out, businesses can significantly reduce their carbon footprint.
Join the movement, embrace sustainable practices, and be a part of the positive change our planet needs.
Play It Green: Empowering Your Sustainable Journey
Ready to take your commitment to sustainability to the next level? Play It Green stands as your partner in creating positive environmental change. From educational resources on sustainable practices and signposting to sustainable services to initiatives like tree planting and social giving, Play It Green offers a holistic approach to environmental stewardship. Join us in the journey toward sustainability—embrace eco-conscious practices and be a force for positive change in our world. All whilst staying relevant, meeting legislation and aligning with the values of today’s consumers and employees.
