Walking the Green Walk:
Are We There Yet?
In the vast expanse of global business travel, there’s an MVP we can't ignore: “Sustainability.” But as our suitcases zip to the boarding gate, the question looms: Is sustainability getting the VIP pass or stuck navigating security checks?
Our friends at Emburse have some eyebrow-raising stats: 71% of businesses proudly proclaim their sustainable business travel practice. However, when it's go-time, a mere 37% are actually living that eco-dream. And the rest? Well, maybe they missed the memo.
Over in the UK, only 16% of travellers seem to have sustainability on their radar. Drifting to South Africa, the commitment seems a touch more hesitant. Bonnie Smith, GM at FCM, adds a twist, “Businesses are keen to incorporate sustainability, they truly do. But wrestling with immediate cost concerns and a lack of accessible sustainable options often tips the balance away from the eco-friendly route.”
The Shifting Sands of Global Business Travel
Post-pandemic, financial belts have tightened. An impressive 31% of travellers are zooming in on cost-effectiveness, relegating sustainability to the back seat. But let's face it, when we gauge the importance of sustainability in travel, we realise it's high time it rode shotgun.
Here's where things get interesting: A hefty 71% of employees expect their leadership to blaze the sustainable business trail. Yet, in a head-scratching twist, many leaders feel it's the employees who should be leading the green parade. When responsibility becomes a game of ping-pong, progress stalls. And those carbon emissions? They’re still soaring.
A Closer Look at South Africa
South Africa's journey on the sustainable travel map is, well, complicated. Smith weighs in, noting that the nation is still trying to find its footing on the green path.
Money matters, but it's not the whole story. As optimistic as we might be, South Africa isn't exactly brimming with eco-travel options at every turn. While other countries proudly showcase their green credentials, some parts of SA are still catching up.
And about staying in the loop: Cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg might be on top of the global green trends, but the wider corporate sector? They could use a bit more insight. Smith hints that maybe it's time for some informed discussions – perhaps a workshop or two – to ensure everyone's singing from the same sustainable hymn sheet.
The Three Types of Sustainable Travel?
Diving into sustainable travel, we find three clear pillars:
- Act: Pull back the curtain on that carbon footprint. Let’s see it in the spotlight.
- Track: Roll out integrated travel programmes. Together, we amplify the green impact.
- Reward: Eco-friendly choices? They deserve a nod and a nudge.
Championing the Green Way Forward
Smith brings clarity to the green path:
- Travel Reports: Dive into the nitty-gritty. When the carbon narrative is front and centre, travellers take notice.
- Collaboration: A rallying cry for travel managers! Pooling resources and brains means more sustainable wins.
- Incentives: Making the green leap should feel good. And, well, rewarding.
- Education: Keeping the conversation fresh and frequent ensures sustainability isn't just a phase but a fixture.
Smith leaves us with a final thought: “Travel and sustainability should be two sides of the same coin. As South Africa carves its path, will we see a green revolution or more of the same?”