The Business Travel Show Europe has released new data indicating that a vast majority (93%) of corporations have implemented a sustainable travel programme, with 19% investing in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and blocking air options over rail in their online booking tools (OBTs). However, the poll, which received 289 responses from travel and procurement managers, also found that 77% do not set or monitor carbon budgets. Of those that do, 18% use their OBT to manage it, but 57% feel their OBT lacks the necessary functionality, and 14% have no plans for carbon budgeting.
The poll also revealed that 33% of the respondents who do not have a sustainable travel policy attribute it to cost, while 22% blame a lack of commitment from senior management, and 11% cite their OBT’s inability to support carbon budgeting/offsetting or help them choose greener options.
Comparing the results to last year’s responses, the poll indicated a decline in some key areas such as restricting unnecessary trips, offsetting aviation-related emissions, actively reducing internal travel, and restricting how many people travel overseas to the same meeting. However, it also showed an increase in softer activities such as being conscious of the human rights impact of the travel programme, providing employees with a safe space to discuss the impact of travel on their wellbeing, and offering travellers information on their carbon footprint.
BTN Group Executive Vice President Louis Magliaro acknowledges that sustainability is a high priority for travel and procurement managers. However, the pandemic has impacted the speed of progression in this area. The Business Travel Show Europe aims to provide content and innovation to help businesses invest in the planet and be more environmentally conscious and responsible. The poll was conducted with 289 travel and procurement managers from around the world, with 64% from the UK, 22% from Europe, and 14% from the rest of the world. Business Travel Show Europe will take place at ExCeL London from 28-29 June 2023, alongside TravelTech Show and The Meetings Show. The event aims to bring together over 750 buyers and 200 exhibitors for high-level networking and a premium conference agenda.
