In a survey of 2,506 employees from the UK, US, France, Germany and Spain, 74 percent said companies should set targets for reducing corporate flights and this should be part of their travel policies to combat climate change.

62% indicated they had reduced their flying habits compared to pre-pandemic levels

Surveys show that nearly three-quarters of employees believe that reducing air travel is an important factor in reducing a company’s carbon footprint. And of 1,279 respondents who reported needing to fly to work, 62% said they had reduced their flying habits compared to pre-pandemic levels, 27% said they flew as often as they used to, and 11% said they now fly more. .

“Company aviation habits have changed and employees want a new normal where companies are responsible for reducing their share of emissions,” said Denise Auclair, campaign manager for corporate travel at Transport & Environment. “Change will happen with clear goals and policies that align with employee expectations. This can only help companies in today’s race to recruit and retain the best talent.”

The survey also highlighted the potential impact on meetings, with 72% of respondents saying they are willing to take fewer flights for internal meetings and 67% willing to plan more local gatherings, rather than global gatherings, to reduce long-haul flights.

“Employees understand the climate impact of long-haul flights and are willing to reduce their travel. But they expect senior management to lead by example and set ambitious business travel reduction targets.”