UK: A sustainability roundtable hosted by global serviced apartment agent SilverDoor found that fragmented carbon data and cost pressures are preventing businesses from meeting their travel sustainability targets.
The reasons why many companies struggle to hit their green goals, according to those in the room, include inconsistent data across suppliers and the relentless focus on cost management. Without reliable emissions figures and budget flexibility, firms cannot plan or report on sustainability effectively.
Jackson said: “Sustainability is an evolving journey requiring collaboration, innovation, and a commitment to continuous learning.”
Cost remains the dominant factor in decision-making. Pinnock said: “A lot of clients are still focused on keeping costs down.” Richardson said: “You can only be a sustainable company if you are still a company. It should always be people, planet and profit.”
Data complexity was the other major barrier. Ellis said that variations in regional reporting and rail connectivity made it hard to compare emissions. Hutchings said: “Because there are so many different elements to a relocation, how do you get all of that data fed back from your supply chain?”
Looking ahead, panellists expect carbon budgets and emissions caps to appear alongside rate caps in supplier contracts.
Pammenter added that properties will soon be required to provide carbon-calculator data as part of requests for proposals.
The group also agreed that as Gen Z moves into leadership roles, its digital-first, sustainability-oriented mindset will drive tougher environmental standards across corporate travel.
Highlights:
• Fragmented carbon data and cost pressures are the top obstacles to sustainable corporate travel.
• Reliable emissions reporting is lacking across global suppliers and relocation services.
• Companies are prioritising cost over sustainability due to economic pressures.
• Carbon budgets and calculator tools are likely to become mandatory in supplier contracts.
• Gen Z leadership is expected to drive more stringent environmental standards in business travel.
