ABSTRACT
With increasing climate change concerns, there are calls for action to reduce aviation greenhouse gas emissions. Universities are responsible for a significant amount of air travel and this study evaluates approaches to reduce aviation emissions at Griffith University, in the Southeast Queensland area of Australia. The research involved consultation with the Griffith University community. A series of semi-structured interviews with ten relevant stakeholders and a week-long immersive digital discussion with 52 staff using the digital platform Recollective were conducted. University staff described how the COVID disruption gave them the chance to reflect and develop innovative and immersive teaching and research practice. Some university staff were very supportive of the environmental cause relating to air travel, whilst others were more resistant due to work and career-based concerns. It was determined that the travel booking process would be enhanced with tools such as a carbon calculator, an emission impact dashboard, a flight data management system, and improved visualisation of information. Some interesting and innovative ideas also emerged from the study regarding individual incentives and a university-wide campaign effort. Finally, the university has committed to an implementation plan and aviation emissions reduction target of 25% by 2030, based on 2010 levels, following the case study.