Hotelplan UK has launched a new sustainable travel policy for staff, encouraging them to choose lower-carbon transport for work and leisure.
The parent of Explore Worldwide, Inntravel, Inghams, Esprit and Santa’s Lapland has adopted the policy after research showed two-third of people (67%) would consider more sustainable travel options if they had additional days to do so.
The initiative covers commuting, business travel and leisure/holiday travel for all employees.
Staff are offered paid travel time whenever they travel by train, public transport or under their own steam – walking, cycling and scooters – rather than by air or driving a petrol or diesel vehicle.
Travelling shorter distances for leisure – between 150-450 miles each way – staff are able to claim an additional half-day travel time when using rail or coach.
It even applies if they are on a weekend break which doesn’t coincide with their normal working hours. For longer distances of more than 450 miles, staff can claim an additional full day.
Prue Stone, head of sustainability at Hotelplan UK, described the policy as “forward-thinking”.
“We know our staff are committed to sustainability, but that sometimes time and financial demands can make the right decisions more different,” she said.
“We hope that by encouraging slower travel, and allowing additional time to do so, people feel supported in putting their values first.”
Hotelplan also recommends video/audio conferencing rather than in-person meetings where possible, and choosing locations for meetings where staff can access by public transport.
It says making the travel carbon footprint should be the principal consideration when deciding on meeting locations – and trains should be considered before planes.
Hotelplan offers flexible, hybrid working across the business, plus cycle storage and showers at its Hampshire HQ
Stone added: “We want to lead by example, both within the business, with senior leaders travelling more sustainably for business and pleasure, and within the industry, showing how it is possible to encourage lower-carbon choices.
“What’s more, as well as helping the planet, we’re big believers in the joy and authenticity of slower travel, taking the time to appreciate our surroundings, and be aware of the journeys we’re making.”