Making Business Travel Environmentally Sustainable

Environment a hot-button business issue

2020 marks the first time millennial-aged workers make up more than 50% of the world’s labor force. That demographic shift is changing some very basic ideas about business travel and how to make it more sustainable.

One of the hallmarks, and some say key advantages of the millennial generation, is their ability to adapt to rapid change. The environment is a hot-button issue among millennials, including those who have become established business people.

It’s well known that business travelers dictate the direction of the airline industry and this new breed of executives is determined to run companies in keeping with a set of UN-driven principles called ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance). These are the three pillars used to measure a corporation’s effect on the wider society.

Airlines a major source of emissions

Many governments are already taking steps to push large and small firms to change how they operate, and business travel is a key factor in this shift of priorities. The primary concern is the carbon footprint of the airline industry and how to reduce what is a major source of greenhouse gases. The International Civil Aviation Organization has predicted that by 2050 airline industry emissions could increase by 700 percent if nothing is done.

Looking for ways to save

This is where technology will play a vital role. As apps become smarter, many younger business people aren’t leaving the details to travel agents. They’re planning their own flights, accommodations and vehicle rentals. Even payment methods are open to scrutiny.

With more and more business professionals freelancing, working under contract or otherwise self-employed, they look for ways to save in areas such as high credit card interest rates, like using the app favored by gamers all over the globe, Neosurf casino. No banking or personal information required, accepted online and at retailers worldwide.

Direct flights more convenient and greener

One of the best features about apps is being able to instantly compare available travel options and prices. A simple way to reduce your own business travel carbon footprint is to book direct flights. That results not only in saving you time but that’s also one less flight you’re taking to your destination and cuts your contribution to airline emissions on average by half.

Just like starting a car uses more fuel that driving, so it is with airliners, which use a great deal of fuel in taxiing down the runway, taking off and reaching cruising altitude and speed. If your flight is of a short duration – say three hours or less – why not think about taking a budget airline? Budget fliers also use smaller, more fuel-efficient planes and tend to get more people on each flight.

Most regional airlines also have business sections in the first several rows. Those seats may cost a little more but are a great option for the business traveler that likes a bit more leg room and wants to be off the plane quickly upon arrival.

Rent fully electric vehicles

It may not seem like much, but experts say that educating airline passengers to pack lighter would be another easy way to cut emissions in a big way. After all, don’t we all pack more stuff that we really need when going on a business trip? Light-weight suitcases are something else to be considered or perhaps invest in a high durability, soft-material bag. Another way to reduce your carbon footprint is to make sure you book a rental car that is fully electric. Or use one of the many super convenient ride-sharing services available virtually anywhere on the planet.

Good business for everyone

Or if you plan to make several short trips while at your destination, how about renting a bicycle? Not only do you produce zero emissions but it’s a great workout and you can see the sights. If a bicycle isn’t practical, an electric scooter will take care of your local travel needs while having a very low impact on the environment. The most efficient way to get to meetings in your destination city has to be public transit. It’s a relaxing way to get around and gives you time to prepare for that important face-to-face. Those are just a few ways environmentally-conscious business travelers can do their part to contribute to a sustainable planet and that is good business for everyone.