The Travel Network Group has pledged to cut its carbon footprint by 75% year-on-year with the aim of becoming carbon-neutral by 2030.
Chief executive Gary Lewis revealed the target during TTNG’s conference in Munich yesterday (Tuesday).
He said the consortium has partnered with a climate-positive, not-for-profit organisation called One Carbon World, which will measure TTNG’s carbon emissions and offer advice about reducing them.
Describing One Carbon World as a “blue chip” organisation in the carbon-reduction sector, Lewis told delegates: “It has to be done. We have to make behavioural changes to reduce our carbon footprint.”
One Carbon World has been selected as an observer organisation by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) for Cop28 and operates in 32 countries.
TTNG will buy carbon credits via One Carbon World to offset some emissions, and an expert from the non-profit organisation will help the consortium to measure and reduce carbon produced by its head office and its staff.
These can include the gas and electricity, employees’ commute and events such as the overseas conferences.
“There will have to be heartfelt decisions that we have to think about,” Lewis told Travel Weekly.
“If you are really intent on making a difference you have to something and be measured.”
TTNG will also share its experiences and tips with members to help them on their own sustainability journey via its Training Academy.
“We’re not preaching, we are doing something about it,” Lewis said.
He cited research showing 69% of consumers research sustainable holidays but they are not driving change in the sector – that has to be done by the trade and government, he explained.
Lewis also pointed to the diverse nature of TTNG’s 65-strong workforce – who between them speak 23 languages – and how younger staff in particular ask questions about sustainable practices.
Picture of Gary Lewis by Alex Maguire