Sam Cande, Consultancy Director takes us through why sustainable business travel starts with a mindset change.
When we talk about sustainable travel, it’s easy to assume it means not travelling at all. But that’s not the case. Sustainable travel is about travelling with purpose. It’s about rethinking how, why, and when we travel, so every decision we make is more conscious and responsible.
Sustainability isn’t just a checklist. It’s a mindset shift. It means embedding responsible choices into every stage of your journey, from the moment you step out your front door to the moment you return home.
It starts with intention. Ask yourself: Do I need to travel for this meeting? Could it be done virtually? How often do I need to meet this client face-to-face, and where should we meet to minimise emissions? By planning your year strategically, you can group meetings, reduce the number of trips, and make smarter choices that balance business needs with environmental responsibility.
And when you do travel, start with the small details. Could you take public transport to the airport instead of driving? Can you eat before you go and choose a plant-based meal onboard to help reduce the environmental impact of your trip?
Where you stay matters too. Look for hotels with credible sustainability credentials, such as ECOsmart certification or one that has clear net-zero targets and published sustainability reports. Choose places that have phased out single-use plastics, use renewable energy, conserve water, support local suppliers, and offer plant-based or vegetarian food options.
Even when flying is unavoidable, you still have choices. Choose direct flights with lower emissions, avoid unnecessary stopovers, and fly into airports that are well connected by public transport. Where possible, book multiple meetings in one trip and stay longer, reducing the need to fly back and forth.
And when you arrive, think local. Can you walk or cycle to your meetings? Could you use trams or trains instead of taxis? And if you do need a taxi, is there an electric vehicle option?
Just as importantly, consider your impact on the communities you visit. How can your presence bring value beyond the business you came for? Supporting local, independent businesses, staying in locally owned accommodation, and eating at restaurants that champion regional produce can all contribute to the local economy. Could you take it a step further and build social value into your trip, perhaps through volunteering, mentoring, or supporting a local community initiative while you’re there?
Ultimately, being a more sustainable traveller means planning with intention and acting with awareness. It’s not about perfection or never getting on a plane again, it’s about making better choices every time you do. Sustainability is not just about carbon, it’s about people, places, and purpose. When we shift our thinking, every journey becomes more meaningful and part of the solution.
Ready to make your business more sustainable?
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your strategy to the next level, we can help. From tailored consultancy to practical training, we work with businesses of all sizes to embed sustainability into every journey.
Get in touch with Sam Cande, Consultancy Director at 360 Consulting by Greengage, to explore how we can support your sustainability goals and help your organisation travel with purpose.
📩 Email: sam.cande@greengage.solutions
🌍 Learn more: https://www.greengage.solutions/360-sustainability-consultants/
