Business travel and the environment; let’s address the elephant in the room

We all play a pivotal role in ensuring a sustainable future; everything from our fashion, diet and travel choices are under scrutiny from a societal, media and political standpoint. And while it can sometimes feel overwhelming, with such growing pressure for immediate action, there is a real need – and a way – to make better and carefully considered choices where travel is concerned.

Knowledge is power

As a responsible travel management company, we recognise that business travellers need to be empowered with the knowledge to make informed decisions, so that they can choose a ‘greener’ way to travel. Within Clarity’s online booking tool Go2Book, bookers can opt to travel via rail or Eurostar instead of flying (on certain journeys), thereby reducing their carbon footprint.

Carbon offsetting

Clarity are in partnership with ClimateCare, an organisation which delivers tailored programmes to help offset residual carbon emissions. Using data insight, we’re able to calculate our client’s carbon emissions and indicate the cost required to offset them. What’s more, Clarity have plans in place to offset all of our company’s carbon emissions by 2020 – a great step towards being a greener travel provider!

Do sweat the small stuff

There’s much that needs to be done on a global scale to combat climate change: sourcing cleaner fuels, using plastic alternatives and choosing to support sustainable initiatives is key to ensure the future wellbeing of our planet.

Whilst global action is a must, there are some smaller things we can all do when travelling to help reduce our carbon footprint.

Check out our top 5 top tips for reducing your carbon footprint when travelling:

1. Go paperless

With Clarity’s Trip Planner, all of your hotel, flight and rail itineraries are stored in one easy to use app. Simply have your phone handy and you’ll have everything you need at the touch of a button

2. Travel light

In most instances, the heavier the plane, the more fuel is needed. So, when you’re packing for your next business trip ask yourself “do I really need that extra pair of shoes?”

3. Fly direct

If you’re able, flying direct is a good way to reduce your carbon footprint; the majority of planes use the most fuel for take off and landing.

4. Fly economy

Seats in economy are generally smaller than in business class, therefore more seats are available onboard for the same amount of fuel.

5. Use your local airport

It’s simple: the shorter distance you need to travel to the airport, the less emissions they’ll be overall for your journey.