Tieto saved 11,000 return flights using virtual meetings

As a part of an internal smart spending program, Tieto decided in 2018 to reduce the frequent flying and start asking all employees to meet virtually. Not only did the new green travel mindset save emission of carbon dioxide from 11,000 return flights – it also started a sustainable chain reaction within the company.

As a Nordic company, Tieto has teams and employees spread in the Nordic countries and worldwide, and frequent travelling has been a natural part of working at Tieto. Flying is often the first choice.

But that is changing due to the increasing number of alternatives in a digital world. Tieto managed to save the equivalent of 11,000 return flights between Helsinki and Stockholm in only half a year –reducing approximately 1,500 tons of CO2 emissions.

“It’s really great to see that this change already had such a positive impact when it comes to our carbon footprint as a company. Since our travelling volumes are substantial, working together to instill a new mindset we have a chance to really make a difference. Now we want to inspire other companies to follow”, says Ida Bohman Steenberg, Head of Sustainability at Tieto.

A lot of the meetings at Tieto are now virtual, using Skype, Teams and document sharing and webcasts are used in company-wide internal communications.

The new way of meeting has led to a change in Tieto’s policy that ensures that the company will continue a more responsible travelling. Guidelines will help the employees to always choose the more environmentally friendly alternative. The interest is growing and employees have even started a group where the subject is discussed.

“The sustainable benefits could come from all kind of initiatives. What is important is to identify the wins and continue the work. This has given us the confidence to be even more aggressive in our goalsetting to combat climate change”, says Ida Bohman Steenberg.

Tieto aims to capture the significant opportunities of the data-driven world and turn them into lifelong value for people, business and society. We aim to be customers’ first choice for business renewal by combining our software and services capabilities with a strong drive for co-innovation and ecosystems. www.tieto.com