A recent report by Thinks Insights & Strategy for the UK government identifies cost, time, low employee engagement, and perceived logistical challenges as significant obstacles for UK-based companies aiming to implement more sustainable travel and commuting policies.
The report highlights that anticipated costs and time requirements for establishing and maintaining sustainable travel initiatives are among the primary barriers hindering their adoption. However, most surveyed companies recognized that the Covid-19 pandemic had decreased commuting and business travel, resulting in some sustainability benefits.
Notably, the report states, “These changes were seen as a response to the pandemic rather than a deliberate environmentally motivated effort by businesses or employees.” It also points out that shifting working patterns post-pandemic mean commuting and travel behaviors have yet to stabilize.
Among businesses that have initiated sustainable commuting and domestic travel programs, common strategies include decarbonizing vehicle fleets and promoting lift-sharing schemes. Many companies are encouraging employees to conduct meetings online to save time and costs, while some aim to lower carbon emissions.
Businesses involved in the study acknowledged various advantages of adopting sustainable travel policies, such as an enhanced corporate image, improved recruitment and retention, and, to a lesser extent, environmental protection. The latter was a key motivator for a minority of businesses with strong societal and environmental commitments, who are willing to sacrifice some profits to uphold their values.
While there is broad awareness that business travel and commuting contribute significantly to carbon emissions, sustainability concerns often take a backseat to cost and logistical considerations, especially amid an economic downturn.
The study was commissioned to inform a potential Commute Zero program, which would provide accreditation for UK businesses that adopt sustainable commuting and travel practices.
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