Before we quit our jobs to travel to Argentina, I traveled several times a month for work. While I enjoyed seeing new places, meeting new people, and sampling local foods, I felt guilty about the impact my frequent business travel had on the planet.
Teleconference
Before you decide a business trip is absolutely necessary, check first to see if a teleconference could happen in place of meeting in person. Sometimes the people you are working with are just as happy to have a tele- or video- conference and it saves you time and expense while having less environmental impact.
Take the Train or Bus
If you can, take a bus or train to your destination. I took the Acela fast train from Washington, D.C. to New York several times. It was less of a hassle (no security lines, easier to get to, fewer delays) and a fun way to see the East Coast.
Fly Nonstop
When a train isn’t an option, fly nonstop. You reduce your emissions by up to 50% with nonstop travel. Check out our guide to the best nonstop search engines.
Schedule Trips Back to Back
If you have several different cities to travel to, schedule the trips back to back. While this can get tiring, you will save time and resources by not flying home in between.
Take Public Transportation to Get Around
Once your at your destination, take public transportation to get around. In many cities taking the subway or metro can be faster than a cab inching through traffic.
Hop in an EcoCab
Most major cities now have hybrid taxis and eco cabs. If you must take a taxi, see if this is an option.
Share Transportation
If you’re traveling with co-workers, schedule your travel at the same time so that you can share taxi rides or rental cars.
Select a Hybrid Rental Car
If renting a car is the only option that makes sense, get a hybrid rental car. The prices usually fall within a company’s per diem and you can justify it with gas savings.
Stay in a Green Hotel
Green hotels are a great option for business travel. I personally like the Kimpton hotel chain.
Green your Stay
When staying at a hotel, do everything you can to use fewer resources. This includes hanging your towel, adjusting the thermostat, and turning off the lights.
Bring a Water Bottle
You know how much I love my Klean Kanteen stainless steel water bottle and it looks sleek enough for professional settings. Another option is to reuse your disposable water bottle several times over the course of a short business trip.
Carry One Bag
If you’re a frequent business traveler you probably having packing in one bag down to a science, but if not, check out our tips for packing light.
What other ways do you travel green when traveling for business?
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