According to a sustainability calculator, I saved 0.03 Metric tones of Co2 by taking the train.
Taking the train was a pleasant experience and was much quicker than driving. I managed to work on the way there and did some additional networking with a colleague from the conference on the journey home. An additional bonus was being able to have a few beers with some colleagues from the conference before taking the train home.
Sustainable travel is important to me - I cycle to work every day and try to minimise the amount of time I spend traveling by car. While I think its important sustainable travel scheme exist, I do wonder about their relative impact in the face of the global emissions inequality. According to Oxfam’s Carbon inequality Kills report, the average billionaire emission exceeds 2.5 million tonnes of CO₂ per year, whilst the average Brit emits just 7.6 tonnes.
To end on a more positive note, I think the IGUANA scheme is a great initiative - not only does it provide students and staff with funds to use more sustainable modes of transport, but it also encourages people to think about the carbon cost of their travel choices.
In the future, I’ll consider the carbon cost of flying versus taking the train when attending conferences abroad.