COMPANIES in the south have changed their approach to business travel because of environmental concerns.

Sixty six per cent of small firms claim to have changed the way they approach business travel, a survey by business cash flow provider, Bibby Financial Services has found.

A third of owners and managers are trying to reduce face-to-face meetings by opting for conference calls, and 35 per cent take the train where possible.

Andy Leopold, Bibby Financial Services spokesperson for the south, 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 per cent) 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."

Businesses most likely to embrace environmental issues are those that have started trading since 2000.

Of these, 29 per cent have changed their company vehicles to more fuel-efficient models while 23 per cent have introduced environmentally-friendly policies, such as car share schemes and cycle to work initiatives.