Start integrating sustainable work travel initiatives to reduce your carbon emissions

Corporate employee commuting to work

In recent years, there has been a growing emphasis on environmental responsibility within the workplace. One area that offers significant opportunities for reducing carbon footprints is employee commuting. By implementing effective work travel initiatives, employers can actively support their teams in reducing emissions while promoting healthier, more sustainable practices. Let’s explore how businesses can play a role in this important shift.

UK transport carbon emissions (Carbon Brief July 2021)

Why should you care?

Commuting is a significant contributor to carbon emissions, with millions of employees travelling to and from work each day. In the UK, transport accounts for a significant portion of UK total emissions, with car usage being the primary factor.

Offering greener commuting options not only reduces emissions but also improves employee wellbeing and contributes to a more productive, engaged workforce.

Greener commuting options can help alleviate stress and burnout, especially as many workers report feeling exhausted from their daily routines. A focus on health and wellbeing through active transport like cycling or walking can improve physical and mental health, while reducing absenteeism due to stress-related illnesses.

Businesses that support greener commuting options demonstrate a commitment to environmental responsibility and employee welfare, which can boost engagement and attract talent. With 61%* of workers feeling exhausted at the end of their workday and 55%* reporting increasing work intensity, offering support for commuting can relieve some of the pressures on today’s workforce.

Employer sustainable work travel initiatives - What can you do?

"After 3 years of commuting and working in London, I calculated commuting costs totalled approximately £8,500. Cycling to Work has transformed my life. Cycling has improved my mood significantly, whereas using public transport often results in a noticeable decline", Rufus Brown, Simplify Climate consultant.

We have listed the most important work travel initiatives you as an employer needs to consider integrating as part of your social strategy:

1. Encouraging Public Transport Use: One of the most straightforward ways to reduce emissions is to promote public transport. Employers can offer subsidies or discounts for travel cards, making it more affordable for employees to choose buses, trains, or trams over driving. This approach not only helps to lower emissions but also reduces congestion in urban areas.

   
   

2. Cycle to Work Schemes: Cycling is an excellent option for employees who live within a reasonable distance of the workplace. By implementing cycle-to-work schemes, companies can provide tax-free bike purchases, making cycling a more accessible option. Not only does cycling cut down emissions, but it also encourages physical health, improving overall employee wellbeing.

   
   

3. Carpooling and Ride-Sharing: Employers can set up carpooling platforms or partner with ride-sharing apps to encourage employees to share journeys. This reduces the number of cars on the road, cutting emissions and easing the stress of commuting. Additionally, carpooling can enhance social interactions and strengthen connections among colleagues, promoting a more inclusive work culture.

   
   

4. Electric Vehicle (EV) Incentives: As electric vehicles become more popular, businesses can support their employees in switching to EVs by offering charging stations at the workplace or partnering with leasing companies to offer discounted rates. This initiative reduces emissions, particularly for employees who live further from work and need to drive.

   
   

5. Flexible and Remote Working Options: The shift towards hybrid working, accelerated by the pandemic, offers an excellent opportunity to rethink commuting patterns. Allowing employees to work remotely, either full-time or on certain days, drastically reduces the need for daily travel, lowering emissions while improving work-life balance. This flexible approach also enhances productivity, with employees able to work from environments that suit them best.

   
   

Conclusion

Individuals commuting in London

Supporting work travel initiatives is an essential step for businesses looking to reduce their environmental impact while prioritising the wellbeing of their teams. From promoting public transport and cycling schemes to offering EV incentives and remote working options, there are numerous ways employers can contribute to reducing emissions. By embracing these effective strategies, companies can create a more resilient, productive, and healthier workforce, contributing to a brighter future for both the planet and their employees.

At Simplify Climate, we are dedicated to simplifying and supporting businesses on their journey towards more environmentally responsible practices. Consider adopting these work travel initiatives to not only reduce your carbon footprint but also enhance the wellbeing and productivity of your workforce.

Visit our website at www.simplifyclimate.co.uk, to schedule a discussion with our consultants.

*Sources:

TUC WARNS OF BURNOUT CRISIS IN UK - OHS Reps

In-depth Q&A: What is the UK’s ‘net-zero’ plan for transport? - Carbon Brief