The airline industry has been one of the largest contributors of globalization across the world. By connecting people, economies, and cultures it has broken the barriers of time and distance. The global aviation industry consumes over 200 million tons of fuel per year. The rising demand for air transport and the rising crude oil prices have created a need for improvement and innovation within the industry especially in the environmental management sector thus causing a push for an increase in sustainable practices within industry. According to the Air Transport Action Group global aviation worldwide produces 2% of all human-induced carbon dioxide (or CO2) emissions, is responsible for about 12% of the total emissions from the transportation industry. However, alternative options like biofuels, are expected to reduce the aviation carbon footprint of fuel by 80%.The largest players in the airline industry in the United …show more content…
Southwest Airlines, however, has become one of the most successful and beloved of those airlines since its inception in 1971. Known for their affordable prices, amazing customer service, and inclusive miles program, Southwest Airlines is also the pioneer of senior discounts, fun fares and the fun packs. What differentiates it from its competitors is a robust business model which focuses on the customer experience, environmental and cost efficiency, active forward thinking, and a motivated and effective team of employees and associates. Through this strategy, Southwest has achieved multiple competitive advantages that have allowed it to stay relevant in the face of an evolving landscape. In the environmental management efforts, Southwest’s transparency is also a step ahead of their competition. Social factors, historical events, international agreements/policies, and a push for competitive advantage have influenced their environmental policies and agendas