Exploring the carbon footprint of different modes of coaching delivery: A first step towards an environmental impact assessment of coaching

Passmore, J. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0832-7510 and Fernandez Martin, R. (2026) Exploring the carbon footprint of different modes of coaching delivery: A first step towards an environmental impact assessment of coaching. International Coaching Psychology Review, 21 (1). pp. 12-23. ISSN 2396-8753 doi: 10.53841/bpsicpr.2026.21.1.12

Abstract/Summary

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to use environmental impact assessment methods to explore the carbon footprint of different modes of coaching delivery and through this exploratory study to encourage coaching psychologists to deepen their understanding of the topic and the wider impact of their work. Design: We used a recognised scenarios approach, EIA, to examine different modes of coaching delivery to estimate the carbon impact of different modes. Finding: Our findings reveal differences in carbon impact from different modes of delivery. The lowest carbon impact is coaching delivered for face-to-face on-site coaching and digital coaching, and increases with physical distance travelled, varying with the mode of travel used and increasing with more energy intensive technologies, such as AI and VR. Research limitations: The study employed an economic EIA methodology which was dependent on assumptions. We note personal circumstances will vary from the specific example used in this paper with assumptions based on USA data. Further, in some cases the calculations were limited by the use of estimates, but our hope is to generate greater awareness of the environmental impact of the delivery of all services, and that coaching also creates a carbon footprint which varies by mode of delivery. Practical implications: This study is a first step towards exploring EIA. It argues that coaching psychologists should consider their carbon footprints while organisations should extend environmental considerations to services including L&D. Social implications: The planet is facing an ecological crisis from global warming. Current organisational and individual practices result in individuals enjoying the benefits of carbon production, while passing the costs of these to future generations. Originality: Few papers have attempted to examine the environmental impact of workplace practices. The paper seeks to encourage consideration of this issue as part of the organisation procurement of coaching and other professional services.

Item Type	Article
URI	https://centaur.reading.ac.uk/id/eprint/129011
Identification Number/DOI	10.53841/bpsicpr.2026.21.1.12
Refereed	Yes
Divisions	Henley Business School > Leadership, Organisations, Behaviour and Reputation
Publisher	British Psychological Society
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