How can you use problem solving skills to reduce an airline's environmental impact?

2 Problem definition

The first step in problem solving is to clearly define the problem you want to solve. This means specifying the nature, scope, causes, and effects of the problem, as well as your goals, constraints, and criteria for success. For example, if you want to reduce your fuel consumption, you need to know how much fuel you use, what factors affect it, how it impacts your costs and emissions, what targets you want to achieve, what resources and regulations you have to consider, and how you will measure your progress.

3 Alternative generation

The next step is to generate as many possible solutions as you can, without judging or filtering them at this stage. You can use various techniques, such as brainstorming, mind mapping, research, benchmarking, or asking for feedback, to stimulate your creativity and explore different perspectives. For example, if you want to reduce your fuel consumption, you can think of solutions such as optimizing your flight routes, using more efficient aircraft, implementing biofuels, or offering incentives for passengers to travel light.

5 Implementation and monitoring

The final step is to implement and monitor the solution you have selected, and check if it solves the problem or if it needs further adjustments. You can use various methods, such as action plans, Gantt charts, or SMART goals, to define the steps, responsibilities, and timelines for the implementation, and use various measures, such as key performance indicators, feedback, or audits, to track the results and outcomes. For example, if you want to reduce your fuel consumption, you can assign roles and tasks to your staff, set deadlines and milestones, and monitor the fuel efficiency and emissions of your flights.