The right message

An ongoing frustration of working in this industry is that noone outside of it really understands it – not just the politicians and policy-makers but friends, family and even, perhaps, our peers on the leisure travel side. Tell people that you work in business travel and most will immediately think of champagne-guzzling CEOS getting some shut-eye in their lie-flat seats and bumping up their air miles, before landing in JFK or Changi to be whisked away in a chauffeur-driven S-class for a whisky-fuelled lunch meeting. They don't think of the crews of engineers being transported to offshore oil rigs or aid workers responding to third world emergencies. They don't think of drawing up global travel policies, adhering to strict budgets, pre-trip approvals or duty of care. They certainly don't think of all the time, effort and investment being made in sustainability.

When it comes to climate change, our industry must take great care not to become the 'bad guy'. While healthy competition is helping to drive innovation, we also need to pull together to make sure we are sending the right message to the outside world.

Once again, our May/june issue is focussed on sustainability. In our overview (pages 27-34) we explore the advancements being made and the challenges still faced. We introduce you to some of the key movers and shakers in the sustainability space (pages 36-39) and help unravel the complexities of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (pages 40-42).

On the all-important issue of sustainability we're committed to keeping the momentum going and will continue to inform and guide you through our website and weekly newsletters. Go to thebusinesstravelmag.com to be part of the journey to sustainable business travel.