Reporting of and policy on greenhouse gas emissions from air travel at Canadian universities

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to explore the extent and characteristics of Canadian university reporting of and policy regarding greenhouse gas emissions from air travel. It identifies current approaches’ details and limits and recommends improvements. Design/methodology/approach The study developed questions and considerations for analysing reporting and policy, reviewed university documents and webpages and contacted university staff. Findings Roughly 20% of Canadian universities report flight emissions. Figures vary by factors of over 100 even when normalized or expressed as a percentage of institutional emissions. Inter-university differences in data collection and emissions calculation practices shape reporting. Canadian university air travel emissions cannot be meaningfully compared. Few universities have flight emissions reduction policies; those that do leave relevant decisions to individuals. These approaches do not respond adequately to the emissions reduction challenge. Originality/value This study is the first comprehensive survey of university flight emissions reporting for any country. Its original framework highlights calculation’s complexities. It recommends standardizing reporting process information disclosure, reporting flight emissions as a range and faculty leadership of emissions reduction efforts.