Carbon Down

International, interstate and even local business meetings play an important part in overall business strategy; connecting with your clients face‐to‐face strengthens business relationships, allows for real‐time negotiations and sets the platform for increased connections and trust.

The other side of this however, is that business travel can increase your impact on the environment, but with the right information and tools, there are measures you can take to make your trip more eco‐friendly.

At the Frankfurt motor show this year, Volkswagen introduced their L1 car - a hybrid that uses a third of the fuel of a Toyota Prius, as well as half the carbon emissions. However, if the L1 is beyond your current green transport strategy, below are a few easier ways to incorporate sustainable travel into your business practises:

Pedal Power
For shorter trips, to and from meetings, combine sustainable transport with fitness by using the humble pushbike. Not only will you avoid being stuck in traffic jams or finding a park, you'll also be able to justify that extra coffee you picked up on the way home. By simply purchasing an office bike or two, you are also giving your employees the option of choosing a greener way to commute during their work day.

Opt for carbon offsets when flying
Most airlines now offer a service where you can 'offset your flight'. This means that for a small charge, usually a few dollars on top of your regular flight price, you can contribute to the airlines investment in renewable energy systems (such as solar or wind power). The more companies and individuals that invest in renewable energy, the cheaper it will eventually become. For more information, see EPA Victoria and RMIT's Guide to carbon offsetting, it includes an Airline Emissions calculator www.carbonoffsetguide.com.au.

Rent a hybrid car
The demand for hybrid cars (half electric and half fuel‐powered) is slowly increasing in Australia and as it does, the option to rent these more environmentally friendly vehicles will become easier and more accessible. Visit www.drivenow.com.au/green‐cars.jspc. If it is not possible to hire a hybrid car, you can view the Green Vehicle Guide for advice and comparisons on which vehicle offers the least carbon emissions for your journey.

Plan trips efficiently and make the most of them
If you're flying interstate, perhaps making a trip from Melbourne to Queensland, ask yourself if there are other clients that you could visit while you're there. This could eliminate the need for another trip a few months down the track. If you can, try to plan your trips efficiently, thereby making the most of them.

For more information on simple measures you can take to reduce your business' carbon footprint, visit www.whatcanidorightnow.com.au.