Planning greener business trips
Table of contents
Traveling by train for environmentally friendly business travel
Business trips are responsible for a significant proportion of a university’s environmental impact. However, they are also essential for universities. Networking at conferences, discussions with conference speakers and research project meetings with national or international partners make up a substantial part of university activities. Therefore, while reducing the amount of traffic is a clear goal from the perspective of the transportation sector, universities must question if they can reduce travel for their employees, or if a high level of employee mobility is a quality criterion for a well-connected university.
The goal is therefore to raise the awareness of those undertaking business trips and to ensure that travel is as environmentally friendly as possible:
- Use online participation at conferences and meetings (if possible).
- Coordinate within the team which business trips/conference participations are important and necessary and whether you can alternate participation if necessary.
- Shift the journey to environmentally friendly means of transport (public transport, train, night train).
- Avoid short-haul and feeder flights.
- When staying in hotels, pay attention to environmental and sustainability certifications of the accommodation.
Calculator for comparing different modes of transportation
Various institutions offer comparison calculators and comparative information on emissions generated by various modes of transportation.
Organizing resource-efficient and climate-friendly events
Environmental Management at TU Dresden has compiled a guide for Green Meetings.
Further information on specific regulations for business trips at the TUD and in the Free State of Saxony are provided on the intranet (login required) for university members.