Corporate Social Responsibility and the Dynamics of Aviation – Why the Burden Is Shared
Oslo
When it comes to emissions from air travel, airlines are often viewed as carrying the main responsibility. In reality, they are part of a much bigger picture. Demand for flights comes from businesses and individuals – which means that companies purchasing travel also share responsibility for reducing emissions. This is aligned with today's view of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), where sustainability covers not only environmental impact, but also social responsibility and sound business performance.
Not Only the Airlines' Responsibility
Airlines are operating in an industry with extremely tight margins and high costs, making it difficult for them to absorb additional expenses for sustainable solutions on their own.
An Industry with Thin Margins
Aviation is one of the world's most competitive industries. Operating margins for European airlines are typically only 2–5%, and fuel alone accounts for around 25% of total operating costs. With such tight economics, even small increases in fuel prices, taxes, or other costs can significantly affect profitability. This leaves airlines with limited flexibility to absorb additional expenses, making collaboration across the value chain essential.
Strict Requirements – Limited Room to Maneuver
At the same time, the EU, national governments, and international regulators are imposing increasingly strict emissions targets. Airlines are already investing heavily in more efficient aircraft and alternative fuels, but they cannot carry the cost of transition on their own.
Businesses as Key Players
For aviation to become more sustainable, multiple stakeholders must contribute. Companies with high travel activity have a unique opportunity to show leadership by:
- Integrating business travel into their climate accounts (Scope 3.6).
- Investing in solutions such as SAF through partners like AFSN.
- Making climate considerations part of their travel and procurement policies.
AFSN Leads by Example
To take responsibility for our own footprint, AFSN adds SAF to the fuel supply in the same amount as the emissions from its employees' business travel. This means AFSN not only offer a solution to its customers, but also practice what it preaches – directly contributing to reducing AFSN's own footprint.
A Shared Responsibility for the Future of Aviation
In short: aviation is vital for an open and competitive economy, but it is also an industry under pressure. Success in reducing emissions requires a shared responsibility between airlines, authorities – and importantly, the businesses that use aviation services. Companies that take their CSR seriously contribute not only to their own climate goals but also to strengthening the industry's ability to deliver safe and sustainable travel in the future.
