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Business travel emissions, classified under Scope 3 Category 6 in the GHG Protocol, specifically about the indirect greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions originating from transportation activities undertaken by employees for business-related purposes, excluding commuting. These activities encompass a wide range of transport modes, including air travel, rail travel, vehicle rental, and the use of personal vehicles for business purposes.
The GHG Protocol Corporate Value Chain (Scope 3) Standard provides the methodology for accounting and reporting these emissions. The process involves identifying and quantifying the amount of travel undertaken for business purposes across different modes of transportation and applying relevant emission factors to estimate the GHG emissions. Emission factors are typically based on the distance travelled and the type of transport used, reflecting the specific carbon intensity associated with each mode.
Business travel emissions are a critical component of an organisation's Scope 3 inventory, as they can represent a significant portion of its indirect emissions, especially for companies with extensive travel requirements. Accurate accounting of these emissions is crucial for developing a comprehensive GHG inventory, setting reduction targets, and implementing strategies to minimise the environmental impact of business travel.
Strategies for managing and reducing business travel emissions include:
- Optimising travel planning.
- Promoting low-emission transportation options.
- Encouraging virtual meetings to replace physical travel.
- Implementing travel policies that prioritise sustainability.
To learn more about GHG emissions and how companies can reduce them, read our whitepaper "The corporate decarbonisation journey".