Sustainability continues to be a major focus in the travel industry, with businesses facing increasing pressure to take real action. Olivia Ruggles-Brise, vice president of sustainability at BCD Travel, recently shared insights in a featured editorial, outlining key trends shaping sustainable business travel in 2025. As new regulations take effect and expectations rise, companies must adapt their travel programs to align with sustainability goals.
Shifting from sustainable talk to action
While sustainability was a prominent topic post-pandemic, its visibility has declined as global priorities shift. However, corporate commitments remain strong, and organizations must move beyond discussion to implement real progress in their travel programs.
Make data accuracy a priority
This year, businesses will begin reporting under the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD). Travel managers will need to ensure that emissions data is accurate and verifiable, helping companies meet reporting requirements and accountability standards.
Sustainability claims: Proceed with caution
With increased scrutiny on greenwashing, businesses are becoming more careful about how they communicate sustainability efforts. The European Union’s Green Claims Directive and recent legal actions are pushing organizations to ensure their claims are accurate, even if it means being more reserved in their public messaging.
Rethinking why employees travel for business
Organizations must reconsider when and why employees travel, balancing business objectives, employee well-being, and environmental impact. Decision-makers should prioritize trips that provide clear value while leveraging virtual meetings as an alternative when travel isn’t essential.
The soaring cost of sustainable aviation
Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) mandates in multiple markets mean increased travel costs for businesses. Airlines are introducing levies and surcharges to support greener aviation, making it critical for companies to budget accordingly and consider sustainable travel policies.
Preparing for climate-related travel disruptions
With climate change causing more frequent travel disruptions, organizations need strategies to mitigate risks. Building resilience into travel programs can help companies prepare for and respond effectively to unpredictable events.
Sustainability in procurement decisions
New regulations require companies to incorporate sustainability into procurement. The Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) has released sustainability standards for air and hotel procurement, pushing businesses to integrate these factors into travel purchasing decisions.
AI as a sustainability tool
Artificial intelligence is enhancing sustainability efforts by improving data collection and forecasting environmental impacts. However, businesses must also consider AI’s energy consumption and ethical implications to ensure it supports long-term sustainability goals.
Sustainability action plans for travel managers
To stay ahead, travel managers should:
- Work with sustainability teams to understand CSRD reporting requirements.
- Ensure accurate emissions tracking and reporting.
- Update travel policies to encourage sustainable choices.
- Evaluate suppliers for compliance with sustainability standards.
- Provide sustainability insights to travelers during booking.
- Offer options for carbon offset investments and sustainable aviation fuel purchases.
To explore these trends further, read Olivia Ruggles-Brise’s full article and follow her on LinkedIn for expert insights on sustainable business travel.
