Embracing Sustainability in Business Travel
Sustainability has become an integral aspect of modern business planning, with individuals and organisations actively seeking ways to mitigate the impact of climate change. For travel programme managers, this presents exciting opportunities to align with sustainability objectives while ensuring business continuity and growth. Now is the time to review and refine your travel policy to embrace a more sustainable future.
Optimise Flight Routes
Opt for non-stop (direct) flights whenever possible, as they are not only environmentally friendly but also contribute to reduced traveller fatigue. Identify destinations suitable for direct flights based on volume, cost, and frequency. Collaborate with your Travel Management Company (TMC) and airline partners to negotiate optimal corporate deals for both the environment and your bottom line.
Sustainable Transport
Assess your travel policy’s requirements for ground transportation. Explore public transportation options such as local and regional rail and express bus routes. Consider factors like carpooling, rental car providers offering electronic or hybrid vehicles, and rates aligning with your policy parameters. Align hotel preferences and meeting venues with sustainable ground transport solutions. Make alterations to preferred properties in collaboration with your TMC and hotel partners to enhance sustainability outcomes.
Eco-Conscious Accommodation
Prioritise sustainability when selecting hotels. Look for features like green roof technology, energy-efficient practices, and water conservation programmes. Educate travellers on the benefits of staying at environmentally conscious hotels. Use your Online Booking Tool (OBT) to prioritise and promote sustainable options.
Comprehensive Sustainability Reporting
Utilise your TMC’s reporting services to track and communicate sustainability progress. Access consolidated reports on CO2 emissions to set goals, track progress, and inform travel policy modifications and supplier negotiations.
Carbon Offset Contributions
Offset your travel programme’s carbon footprint through environmental sustainability initiatives like rainforest conservation, sustainable livelihood programmes, wildlife protection, and renewable energy. Explore carbon offset initiatives like Trees4Travel to positively contribute to global sustainability.
Sustainable Travel Rewards
Leverage gamification to incentivise employees toward sustainable travel decisions. Encourage collective efforts to achieve common sustainability goals, supporting preferred supplier agreements for maximum commercial benefit.
Travel Policy Evolution
Take advantage of updates to your travel policy for risk management and safety to enhance sustainability. Discuss sustainability objectives with your TMC account manager and refine your travel programme to align with business sustainability and employee well-being goals.
If you’re looking to implement a sustainable travel policy but don’t know where to start?
Download our free sustainable travel policy template.
