By using web conferencing software instead of hopping on a plane or driving by car, it really is possible to do the right thing for both the planet, and your company’s balance sheet. Collaboration software not only means lower travel costs, it also provides an excellent opportunity for companies to be visibly “green”.

Prestige 2.0: Corporate social responsibility put into practice by reducing air and car travel

Jetting off to a business meeting still has a certain cachet – but there are downsides. According to the IBM initiative Travel Footprinting, transportation, including business trips, cause 27 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. And although the majority of decision-makers see web conferencing as a viable alternative*, only a small proportion of companies have actually integrated virtual meetings into their day-to-day operations. So by implementing a sustainable carbon-neutral meeting culture, businesses can raise their profile as pioneers.

*Source: Economist Intelligence Unit Report 2009

Hints on implementing cultural change

Everyone in business is now familiar with the concept of “Think before you print”; now it’s time to “Think before you fly.” Since online meetings come in all shapes and sizes, however, it’s important to choose the best web conference software for the task in hand. Our detailed comparison of online meeting solutions is a great way to get started – click here for an overview of all solutions tested.