Transport remains the highest emitting sector in the UK, accounting for nearly a third of carbon emissions in 2021. Around a quarter of these emissions are a result of the daily commute.
Congestion, poor air quality and limited parking on work premises are just some of the other negative impacts of the daily commute, which outside of London are predominately taken by individual drivers in their own cars. However, Research by Mobility Ways found that 40% of employees could walk or cycle to work and 91% could share a car with colleagues.
The 4th August marks the UK’s biggest cycling commuting event, which returns for its tenth anniversary.
3 tips to encourage more cycling to work
There are many barriers people may face when it comes to cycling to work, so we asked one of our team, Account Manager Natalie Ross on how these can be broken down and promoted .
1. Ensure cycling is affordable
First step to cycling to work is, you guessed it, getting a bike! This isn’t always affordable straight away. Enquire about your organisation being part of Cyclescheme, an employee benefit scheme that can save staff up to 26-40% on a bike and accessories.
2. Make sure workplace facilities are sufficient
Having safe and secure bike storage, and onsite changing facilities should be available at all workplaces to help encourage staff to cycle to work and make it easier for them to do so.
3. Advise, support & planning
Feeling unsafe on the road is one big barrier to people cycling to work. Share tips with your employees, such as using google cycling maps which can show bicycle and low traffic routes along your commute. Consider supplying helmets, high-vis and waterproof clothing to encourage safer cycling.
