A recent travel-to-work survey carried out by Portsmouth City Council shows council employees are doing their bit to help reduce their carbon footprint.
The survey, which was completed by 3367 employees, showed that over half of those who responded do not use a car to travel to work.
Out of those who do use a car to go to work, the percentage that travels alone has reduced to 36.2 per cent from 42.2 per cent in 2006.
Initiatives that the council has in place to encourage alternative means of transport to employees, include:
· Interest free loans for bikes and bus tickets
· Discounts arranged at local cycle shops
· Car share database
· Flexi-time for most employees
· Cycle mileage rate for business journeys
· Secure cycle parking at the Civic Offices
The council also has a monthly Go Green newsletter, which is available on the council’s website, and offers advice and details of alternative ways of getting around the area.
Councillor Lynne Stagg, Cabinet Member for Traffic and Transport, said: “The results are very encouraging and while we haven't seen much change in the number of people cycling to work – hopefully we can improve provision for safer cycling in the city in the not-too-distant future so that we’ll see a greater uptake here; but we’re going in the right direction.
“It’s cutting the city’s carbon footprint and cutting air pollution, both of which are really good for Portsmouth and its residents.”
