How green is your travel policy?
The corporate greenwashing days are numbered!
Sustainability is a growing concern for companies the world over. But does your travel policy speak to this concern?
If you’re not sure of the answer, you’re not alone. The pandemic’s close link to environmental concerns prompted many companies to express their belief that it was time to rethink practices that would ensure greater sustainability – especially once they witnessed the improvement in air quality that followed lockdowns. But, two years after the height of the global crisis, it seems that many have forgotten their pledges.
That’s according to a recent podcast hosted on Skift.com, which revealed that 50% of companies taking part in the Skift Sustainable Travel Summit have yet to incorporate steps to boost sustainability in their travel policies.
This is backed by findings from another poll, also reported on Skift.com, revealing that only 6% of corporate travel managers say that their companies make it possible for employees to spend more on sustainable travel options.
What’s more, research by SAP Concur shows that only 13% of businesses in Spain, and 18% of German businesses, have adopted sustainable travel practices.
That said, not all countries have neglected this area: the same survey showed that as much as 47% of all businesses in the UK have embraced sustainability as part of their business travel practice, and consider their policies to be completely sustainable.
Although it’s not easy to ascertain just where South African businesses lie on this continuum, it’s safe to say that it never hurts to increase attempts at sustainability. So says Bonnie Smith, GM of FCM:
“After a long period of conducting meetings over Zoom, companies are looking to start up one-on-one interaction again. Statistics showing an increase in business travel certainly stand testimony to this. Many of these businesses will be reviewing their travel policies, to make sure they are still relevant – especially since so much has changed since we last saw serious travel. This is therefore an ideal time to introduce measures which will ensure greater sustainability.”
Smith admits that some companies may feel that they aren’t sure of the starting point when it comes to green travel. But, she says, this is precisely where a TCM can help. “One of our core functions is to identify the suppliers that are best able to suit your needs. If your goal is to reduce your carbon footprint, for example, we are able to select the hotels that are most aligned with this goal. We can also identify the locations and transport options that meet your requirements – or suggest offsetting projects to mitigate your impact,” Smith says.
There are several other steps a company can take to incorporate sustainability in its travel policy. For example, your policy could state that employees are only to use accommodation establishments that have their own green policies in place. When it comes to car rental, the policy could stipulate that travelling workers must hire hybrid vehicles. And, while it may not be a popular regulation, the policy could also state that employees are to fly economy rather than business class: because economy allows accommodates more people on the plane, it reduces the carbon footprint of each individual. It could also become company policy to ban one-day trips. “Some companies have created carbon budgets for individuals, which encourages the use of vendors that have the lowest impact. If they’ve spent their budget, they have to opt for measures like public transport or online meetings,” Smith says.
“One of the quickest ways you can cut down your carbon footprint is by flying directly to a destination,” she continues. If you’re selecting a destination for incentive travel or conferencing, opt for a country that offers direct routes, she suggests.
If you’re travelling for meetings, try to schedule your trips back-to-back, rather than returning home before setting off again. This requires fewer flights, which means less emissions. And, while you’re away, consider taking public transport. Granted, you may find it more comfortable to hail a taxi or take an Uber if you’d like to arrive fresh for a meeting – but if you need transport to and from a convention centre, for example, make use of shuttles or buses – or walk.
Finally, Smith points out that employees are able to reduce their carbon footprint through their individual actions. Packing light means that places are able to use less fuel and therefore emit fewer emissions, while being a green guest – switching off lights and air-conditioning, and choosing to reuse towels rather than replacing them every day – also counts.
“We can’t afford to pay lip service to sustainability – this is a change we simply have to make,” Smith concludes.