- Obtaining support of Senior Managers, employees, staff groups and union representatives
- Promoting and marketing the objectives and benefits of a Green Transport Plan
- Acting as an information focal point for staff and exchanging good ideas and best practice with other Government Departments and organisations
- Liasing with local authorities and transport operators to improve facilities and services
The co-ordinator should maintain regular contact with Senior Management in order to report on progress and maintain support and enthusiasm.
Area's for discussion
Car Sharing
People driving alone make more than 80% of commuter journeys by car, therefore car sharing can be an appealing first step towards doing something positive.
Some drivers will be more supportive of this rather than using public transport or cycling. It can also be a flexible option because journeys can be shared every day or just on some days and can be arranged with one or more colleagues.
Costs can be shared and need to be fair and issues of set schedules and what happens if somebody fails to turn up must also be addressed.
Car Parking
The availability of workplace car parking spaces has been shown to be one of the most important factors influencing whether or not staff commute by car. Departments may want to look carefully at the case for reducing or charging for car parking. This is likely to be a sensitive issue for some staff. Departments may also be able to make more productive alternative uses of the car park say a five a side pitch for example.
Public Transport
Although buses are a much more popular choice for those working in town centres, nationally less than one in 10 travellers choose this form of transport. A recent survey suggests that many drivers would be prepared to use their cars less if public transport were better or cheaper; yet people who do not use public transport regularly may not be aware of the services available.
Easy-to-use public transport information should be readily available and prominently displayed. Staff discounts for travel cards and park and ride season tickets could be negotiated with transport authorities.
Cycling
Cycling is fast and efficient and can lead to a healthier and more productive workforce. Running costs are low, traffic jams are avoided and journey times are more predictable. Departments can play a part here by talking to local authorities about the provision of cycle lanes and other improvements on routes to the workplace.
Maybe the company could be persuaded to provide interest-free loans to buy a bicycle and appropriate safety equipment and waterproof clothing.
Walking
Just one in 10 commuter journeys are made on foot. Whilst it may be difficult to include positive measures to promote walking, it has value as a healthy form of transport and can be prominently featured in the publicity and marketing. Footways on site should be properly maintained, well lit and clearly signposted.
Ways of reducing the need to travel and use the car
Companies might consider ways in which changes in day to day working practices would help promote green commuting. These could include extending flexible working hour arrangements, and allowing the opportunity for compressed work schedules (working a full working week in less than the usual five days.
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