Less than half (34%) of construction firms have changed the way they approach business travel because of a concern for the environment, new research reveals.

A survey carried out by specialist business cash flow provider, Bibby Financial Services, found that only seven per cent of owners and mangers take the train when possible while a mere three per cent have brought in environmentally-friendly policies such as car share and cycle-to-work schemes (compared to a national average of 18%).

Looking at other business sectors, finance companies are demonstrating the highest level of environmental concern, with 82% of owners and managers having actioned some form of environmental policy for business travel. At the other end of the scale, two thirds (66%) of businesses in the construction sector reported that concern for the environment has not had any impact on their approach to business travel.

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David Robertson, global chief executive of Bibby Financial Services, said: "Corporate and social responsibility has without a doubt moved up nearly every business's agenda over the past few years and it is clear from our research that owners and managers are taking action by reducing the amount of time spent on the road. With nearly three quarters (72%) feeling the effects of rising fuel prices, it is just as well so many have been acting on their concern for the environment as this must have helped to reduce costs.

"However, implementing environmental changes can take a huge amount of effort and commitment. Some of these will also have a financial impact so businesses need to make sure their cash flow is healthy so they can fund any of their planned changes."

(GK/JM)