Travel supports Yale’s research, teaching, and global engagement—but it also contributes to the University’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, particularly Scope 3 emissions from business travel. Business travel represents approximately 11% of Yale’s reported Scope 3 emissions, making traveler and arranger decisions an important part of Yale’s climate strategy. Scope 3 Emissions | Yale Sustainability
Yale’s Climate Action Plan commits the University to:
- Net zero carbon emissions by 2035
- Zero actual carbon emissions by 2050, achieved primarily through emissions reductions
Reducing emissions from University‑funded travel supports these goals while allowing essential academic and administrative work to continue.
Reduce Emissions at the Source
Yale’s Climate Action Plan emphasizes avoiding and reducing emissions. For travel, this starts with evaluating the need for each trip.
Before booking, consider:
- Can the meeting or conference be conducted virtually?
- Can multiple meetings be combined into a single trip?
Making Lower‑Carbon Booking Choices
Air Travel (Scope 3 – Business Travel)
Air travel is often the largest contributor to travel‑related emissions. When flying is necessary:
- Choose nonstop flights when available. Takeoff and landing account for a disproportionately high share of aviation emissions.
- Select economy class where possible; premium cabins have a higher per‑passenger emissions profile.
- Book through Yale’s preferred travel channels, which support consistent data collection and Scope 3 emissions reporting.
- When choosing between similar itineraries, consider airlines operating newer, more fuel‑efficient aircraft or participating in sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) initiatives, where available.
Rail and Ground Transportation
For regional travel ground transportation can offer a significantly lower‑carbon alternative.
Preferred options include:
- Train travel
- Public transportation and shuttle services
- Carpooling
- Hybrid or electric vehicle rentals
For group travel, driving may be more sustainable than flying when emissions are shared among passengers.
Environmentally Responsible Lodging
Hotel stays are typically a smaller share of travel emissions, but best practices still support Yale’s climate goals.
When booking:
- Look for hotels with recognized sustainability certifications such as Green Seal or LEED (U.S.) or EarthCheck and Green Globe (international).
During your stay:
- Reuse towels and linens
- Decline daily housekeeping when not needed
- Turn off lights, climate controls, and electronics when leaving the room
- Make modest thermostat adjustments rather than extreme settings
Everyday Travel Behaviors That Add Up
Small individual choices contribute to collective emissions reductions.
While traveling:
- Pack light to reduce aircraft fuel demand
- Use reusable water bottles and bags
- Avoid unnecessary laundry services
- Recycle when facilities are available
- Support local businesses and services
How This Supports Yale’s Climate Action Plan
Yale is actively:
- Measuring and refining Scope 3 emissions data, including business travel
- Using policy and supplier engagement to drive lower‑emission outcomes
Travelers and arrangers play a critical role by making informed, lower‑carbon choices.