The work-sociology of academic aeromobility at remote institutions

ABSTRACT

Theoretically framed by the concepts of networks, co-presence and proximity, we explore the interplay of corporeal and virtual academic mobilities in the context of ‘remote institutions’ to advance the work-sociology of aeromobility at a time of climate crisis. Empirical insights are drawn from 31 in-depth interviews conducted with academic staff at the University of Otago (New Zealand), to explore the complex personal and professional decisions that underpin academic mobility practices, and shed light on why levels of academic aeromobility have not diminished with the growing capacity for virtual substitution. Our findings inform discussion of the concepts of ‘necessary’ travel and virtual travel as a substitute for non-participation. We conclude with reflections on the scope for social (practice) and institutional (policy) reform, and avenues of future research.

KEYWORDS:

• Climate change
• aeromobility
• remote institutions
• networks
• co-presence
• virtual substitution

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Notes

* Radiative forcing describes the warming effect of chemicals that alter the balance of incoming and outgoing energy in the atmosphere. Historical radiative forcing from aviation is considered to be 1.9 times greater than for the carbon dioxide emissions of aviation alone.

1. Reflecting the UK’s REF framework of research assessment, all New Zealand tertiary institutions are subject to the six-yearly Performance-based Research Fund (PBRF) research assessment exercise.