Flygskam. This Swedish word translates as “flight shame” and has spread across the world. The term refers to feeling guilt over the environmental effects of flying and is symbolic to a movement in which an increasing amount of Swedes are choosing not to fly. Yet, a reduction in flying is a challenge to the liberal idea of free movement. This case study focuses on Sweden, and a self-selected group among Swedes. But it is still of interest to a wider European audience since the word and phenomenom flygskam has spread to other countries. With this report we hope to move beyond the simple dichotomy for and against flying and instead focus on what we can deduce in terms of policy implications from those who voluntarily choose to stop flying because of climate change. The study also reflects on the challenges and possibilities of European policy in relation to flying.

The most commonly mentioned reason to change behaviour was knowledge and insight. This insight occurs not just with the accumulation of knowledge, but in connection to a realisation of the problem’s urgency. This realisation can in turn come from personal experience of climate change and is often related to strong feelings and fear.

Respondents also stressed the importance of conscience and their ambition to be consistent. This idea of justice is not only in relation to others, but also to future generations.