7 tips to travel more sustainably as independent business owner

As an independent business owner, travel is often a necessity to meet with your customers. But for those of us who are environmentally conscious, frequent trips can feel like a necessary evil—essential for work, but damaging to the planet. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce your travel emissions without compromising your business. From flight choices to accommodations, here’s how you can travel smarter and greener.

1. Meet virtually - avoid travel

I assume you will have made this consideration already but this is still the best option to avoid emissions: consider virtual meetings instead of in-person meetings. Post-pandemic, virtual meetings have become an accepted norm, allowing you to stay connected with clients without the need for travel. It’s also a huge cost saver. Still, it is perhaps not feasible for you to completely run your business virtually.

2. Take the train when you can

For regional travel, trains are a low-emission alternative to flying, especially in Europe and Asia. In fact, high-speed rail emits up to 90% less CO₂ compared to flying the same distance. High-speed trains like Eurostar (between London, Paris, and Brussels) or Thalys (connecting major cities in France, Belgium, and the Netherlands) offer efficient and eco-friendly routes. Additionally, trains allow you to relax or work on the go, turning travel time into productive time.

3. Fly with Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)

When your only option is to fly, you can lower your impact by choosing airlines that use sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). SAF can reduce carbon emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuel over its lifecycle. Airlines like KLM, United and Lufthansa are leaders in SAF adoption, and they are generally running efficient fleets with new planes. 

For a more direct SAF purchase go to SAF Planet, which allows you to contribute to SAF purchases if your chosen airline doesn’t yet offer this option. Your SAF will still be delivered and used in the aviation sector, leading to the same emission reduction that you can claim.

4. Drive electric or hybrid

When driving or taxi use is necessary, opt for electric or hybrid vehicles. Many car rental companies now offer electric vehicle (EV) options. For example, Hertz has significantly expanded its EV fleet. If you’re relying on ride-sharing services, Uber Green allows you to request a hybrid or electric vehicle in cities where this service is available.

For city travel, consider bike-sharing programs (or electric scooters, but why skip the free fitness option?). Many urban areas now offer these as part of their public transport systems, reducing your carbon footprint even further.

5. Stay in sustainable hotels

Where you stay matters as much as how you get there. When booking a hotel, look for sustainability certifications such as:

• Green Key, which highlights hotels that adhere to strict environmental standards
• LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), a globally recognized certification for eco-friendly buildings
• EarthCheck, a leading scientific benchmarking program for the travel and tourism industry

Websites like EcoHotels.com or Green Pearls specialize in listing sustainable hotels. Many larger hotel chains are also implementing eco-friendly practices— Marriott and Hilton have launched sustainability programs focused on reducing water usage, energy consumption, and waste.

Consider boutique eco-hotels or lodges that prioritize sustainability and community support. These establishments often take a more holistic approach, sourcing local materials, conserving water, and supporting the surrounding environment.

6. Combine trips to reduce overall travel

Efficiency is key when it comes to minimizing your travel emissions. Instead of making several trips for different meetings and clients, try to combine them into one. Plan ahead and proactively reach out to your clients to plan and combine business appointments. Depending on your destiny, consider extending your stay for a short holiday.

7. Carbon offsets, your last resort, but still okay

When you can’t avoid flights or high-emission transport, carbon offsets are a useful way to balance out your emissions. Reputable platforms like Carbonfund or ClimateCare fund projects that reduce or capture carbon, such as reforestation or renewable energy projects. While carbon offsets don’t erase emissions, they help mitigate the environmental impact when no other options are available. When you go for offsets, consider doubling your contribution, to compensate for some of your historical emissions. It’s not that expensive.

By choosing sustainable options for flights, accommodations, and ground transport, you can reduce your travel emissions without sacrificing your business. Sponsoring SAF use, staying at eco-friendly hotels, and taking greener modes of transport will not only help the environment but also align your business with the values of a growing number of environmentally conscious clients. Sustainable travel is possible—one thoughtful decision at a time.