Our first newsletter is here!
The very first newsletter from Business Travel Pioneers, a coalition of organizations committed to creating more sustainable travel policies, is here! In this newsletter, we aim to inspire companies, universities, and other organizations with ideas for sustainable travel. In each edition (published three times a year), we showcase inspiring examples, highlight the steps others have taken, and offer tips and tricks you can use to get started on your own sustainability journey. Enjoy reading!
Huge impact
Business travel frequently involves air travel, which has the largest climate impact within the transport sector—a share that continues to grow. Furthermore, there is no near-term prospect of large-scale zero-emission flights. The most effective way to reduce this impact is simple: fly less. Business travellers account for an estimated 27% of passenger aviation emissions. Additionally, while "frequent flyers" make up less than 1% of the population, they are responsible for 50% of aviation-related emissions.
Things you can do
So, what can companies and organizations do to reduce the climate impact of their business travel? First and foremost, critically review your travel policies. We challenge organizations to set concrete targets for reducing emissions from business travel and to develop a comprehensive sustainable travel policy. What might this policy include? The most sustainable trip is one that doesn’t happen—many meetings can now be conducted virtually, thanks to the growing capabilities of online tools. Prioritize virtual meetings, and cancel unnecessary physical 1-to-1 meetings or trips for short engagements. If travel is necessary, seek sustainable alternatives, with high-speed rail being a top option. If flying is unavoidable, opt for (premium) economy class, fly direct whenever possible, and consider contributing to offset both CO2 and non-CO2 emissions from the trip.
Want to Learn More?
Business Travel Pioneers unites companies, universities, and other organizations that are ready to take tangible action on sustainable travel. By informing and inspiring each other, we can all make progress together. Interested in learning more? Visit our website, subscribe to our newsletter or reach out to us at info@businesstravelpioneers.be.
