Sustainable travel and travel-free meetings
Uppsala University must set an example in the management of finite resources and actively address the climate impact of our own activities. Business travel accounts for a large share of the University’s emissions and is something we are committed to reducing in accordance with the University’s guidelines.
Digital meetings to replace travel where appropriate
The guidelines on business travel and meetings state that meetings, conferences and similar gatherings should be organised in a way that takes the environment into the greatest possible account. This means that we should always consider whether travelling can be replaced by a virtual meeting, such as a web or video meeting.
Aim for environmental and climate-smart modes of transport
Any journeys undertaken should aim for the least possible environmental impact. Each traveller is responsible for planning and undertaking travel in a way that minimises its environmental impact. Various aspects should be taken into account in all decisions, such as the choice of transport and accommodation. The option of combining different modes of transport and different ticket types should also be considered.
Shared responsibility
Each traveller is responsible for planning and undertaking travel in a way that minimises its environmental impact. It is always the relevant manager who makes an overall assessment of the need for travel/meetings and how all aspects are best weighed up in individual cases based on these guidelines.
Managers must ensure that all staff and contractors are aware of the content of the guidelines and that they are followed. All members of staff travelling on business should have a knowledge of cost-effectiveness, security and environmentally friendly travel.
Target: CO2 emissions to be reduced by 45%
In line with the University’s environmental plan 2025, we will reduce our CO2 emissions from business travel by 45% by 2025 compared to emissions in 2019.
Revised guidelines, autumn 2024
The guidelines on business travel and meetings were revised in November 2024.
News article: New guidelines for business travel and meetings