May 212015
 

What is your carbon footprint? Each Canadian causes 15 tons of CO2 emission per year, American 18 tons, Australian 17 tons, Dutch 11 tons, German 9 tons, British 8 tons, Chinese 6 tons, Indian 2 tons. How much of these emissions are caused by business travels? What can you do to reduce your business travel footprint? Let’s find out.

Go Digital

CDPlogoAccording to a report from the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP), videoconferencing can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 2,271 tons over five years — equivalent to the emissions from 400 passenger cars. The study, which analyzed fifteen Global-500 companies, found that U.S. and U.K. businesses with yearly revenues of one billion can cut 5.5 million metric tons of carbon monoxide emissions by the year 2020 simply by adopting teleconferencing systems.

Go green by replacing your long distance in-person meetings with videoconferences. Business News Daily suggests using conferencing solutions such as Citrix GoToMeeting, Adobe Connect, Cisco WebEx, Skype Premium or Fuze Box to hold virtual meetings with your teams.

Drive Green

Business road warriors should check your tire pressure regularly. A proper tire pressure saves gas and ensures your tires last longer. If you drive frequently to your meetings, consider replacing your tires with eco-friendly ones. Tires that are earth-friendly are made of raw materials, have low rolling resistance and have the ability (at least in part) to be recycled.

Once you are ready to recycle your old tires, bring them to a registered tire collector near you. If you happen to live in Ontario, the upcoming Tire Take Back event from June 1 to 6 can recycle unlimited tires for free. Every tire dropped off generates a donation to the Sunshine Foundation, an organization that helps dreams come true for children who are challenged by severe physical disabilities or life-threatening illnesses.

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An electric car might also be a smart purchase for you. Commuters and frequent travelers can recharge vehicles overnight and eliminate both the expense and harmful emissions of gas-powered cars. Though an initial investment, your wallet and the environment will thank you in the long run. Also take into consideration what you bring. Pack light so you don’t weigh down your car with unnecessary baggage. Pack snacks in reusable containers rather than buying on the road, to avoid waste. And fill and refill aluminum water bottles instead of using one-time use plastic bottles.

Fly Less

According to the Economist, air travel accounts for five percent of the world’s carbon emissions. The Environmental Transport Association reports that business travelers account for 1.2 tons of C02 emissions while in flight.

According to leading environmental expert David Suzuki, studies in sustainable travel show that daytime flights cause less impact on climate, while economy class allows more people per plane, which means fewer emissions per person. When choosing flights, keep in mind that direct flights are more green. Layovers use more fuel because of increased takeoffs and landings.

Stay at Eco-Friendly Hotels

Green-Seal-Green-Key-logoChoose eco-friendly hotels, such as those certified by Green Seal or Green Key. Hotels that use Energy Star appliances, LED lights and environmentally-friendly cleaning agents can make a big difference. Other eco-friendly amenities may include locally sourced food, water conservation and recycling programs. If flying in and out of an airport, stay nearby the airport to cut down on travel expenses and to reduce your carbon footprint.

Derek Wong is a recognized expert at ShareGreen by Walmart, panel judge for Earth Day Canada, keynote speaker at Skills for the Green Economy, and guest speaker at University of Toronto. His innovative approach to employee engagement has led to case studies. Reach him by email or LinkedIn.

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