A recent analysis by Brussels-based advocacy group Transport & Environment (T&E) reveals that emissions from business flights in the pharmaceutical sector decreased by 21% in 2023 compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. This drop is notably less than reductions seen in other industries, with global consultancy firms reporting a 46% decline and technology companies a 49% decrease over the same period.
T&E is spearheading the Travel Smart campaign, aiming for a reduction of corporate air travel emissions by 50% or more from 2019 levels. The organization argues that by flying less, companies can significantly contribute to aviation sustainability. Business travelers represent approximately 12% of airline passengers but account for up to 75% of revenue on select flights, highlighting their potential impact on the aviation industry.
“For the critical decade until 2030, the most effective way to reduce aviation emissions is to fly less,” T&E states on its Travel Smart website. “Current developments in sustainable fuels and zero-emission aircraft are not expected to scale up until after 2030, and offsetting has proven largely ineffective.”
The organization emphasizes the growing concern among consumers, investors, and employees regarding climate change. “If businesses fail to align with these expectations, they risk damaging their reputations,” T&E adds. “Commitment to sustainability and the adoption of eco-friendly travel policies will enhance their image and overall success.”
T&E’s analysis of 11 major pharmaceutical companies indicates that emissions could have been reduced by as much as 44% if the two largest air travelers, Johnson & Johnson and Merck, had cut their emissions in half. Instead, Johnson & Johnson reduced emissions by 10%, while Merck increased them by 29%.
“Top flyers should be leading by example, not diluting efforts to cut back on business flights,” commented Denise Auclair, head of the Travel Smart campaign. “The situation in the pharmaceutical sector exemplifies how large polluters can hinder progress toward reduced air travel.”
T&E asserts that consistent reductions in business flying can only be achieved through specific targets, noting that only four of the 11 companies analyzed have established such goals. Pfizer, AstraZeneca, Novo Nordisk, and Roche have reported emissions reductions between 44% and 55%.
In contrast, T&E’s analysis of major global consulting firms showed that 12 out of 15 companies surveyed had set business travel targets. However, Accenture, KPMG, and SGS have yet to establish such goals. Accenture achieved the highest reduction among the companies analyzed, with a 71% decrease in 2023 compared to 2019.
“The overall trend indicates a reduction following the pandemic’s travel restrictions, particularly among companies that previously had the highest flying rates,” T&E noted. “However, the data reveals that consulting firms are gradually returning to pre-Covid travel levels.”
This trend is reflected in the technology sector, where major tech companies have cut business flying emissions in half since 2019. However, companies like Alphabet, Google’s parent company, and Apple, which have not set reduction targets, are inching back towards their pre-pandemic flight levels. Conversely, Indian tech giant Wipro, which has a target of a 55% reduction by 2030, has increased its emissions reduction to 71%.
“Tech companies have long claimed to be climate leaders, and many have made substantial reductions in business travel emissions,” Auclair stated. “To maintain credibility, they must establish clear reduction targets.”
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