JetBlue Helps Sustainable Aviation Take Off with Carbon Offsets
Commercial aviation is one of the world’s more high-profile carbon-intensive industries, but companies like JetBlue are reacting to changing consumer sentiment to create a more efficient, low-carbon future
Originally published by European CEO
Consumer priorities are shifting across a number of industries, and the aviation sector is no exception. In the past, businesses could get away with offering a simple, good-value service, but today’s customers expect airlines to take sustainability as seriously as they do profitability.
One airline looking to integrate long-term environmental planning and corporate social responsibility into its core business strategy is JetBlue. The airline sets goals to meet both short and long-term financial needs, while also fulfilling its commitment to reducing emissions.
Now, as the market evolves beyond sustainability to incorporate more environmental, social and governance (ESG) issues, JetBlue is well positioned to lead the aviation sector into a new, more environmentally conscious future. European CEO spoke to Robin Hayes, CEO of JetBlue, to learn how the company is adapting to new environmental and social pressures, while continuing to meet the financial demands of its shareholders.
In terms of ESG, why is transparency so important?
At JetBlue, we believe in communicating transparently about our plans and achievements. Since 2006, we’ve shared our social and environmental efforts and impacts publicly. Companies report on these topics because customers demand this information – and rightfully so.
ESG itself is focused on the risks that stem from factors relating to larger environmental and social pressures – in this respect, transparency is key. Investors want to see that we have a viable plan to stay profitable long into the future, even when faced with looming environmental and social challenges.
ESG relates to corporate financial reporting, investor relations, enterprise risk management and shareholder engagement. While sustainability is inherently inward-looking and operational, ESG focuses on external forces, planning for scenarios that are likely to arise in the near future.
