The idea for this initiative originated from the bike to work scheme, but was extended to include a range of options that the staff used to commute to work.
When the Oxford Safety Components Team decided to look at the environmental impact of travelling to work, the project highlighted additional benefits for the team.
After reviewing the different ways in which members of the team travelled to and from work each day, OSC took a closer look at where we could make changes to improve our carbon footprint.
Value to the business
Walking, biking and car sharing to work has many benefits
Improved health: Walking or biking to work offers significant advantages for physical health, mental well-being, financial savings, and environmental sustainability.
Studies show : That active commuters have a lower risk of death from all causes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer compared to those who drive or take public transport
Reduced stress: Walking can be a great way to unwind and relieve stress after a hectic morning with kids or busy day at work.
Reduced emissions: Walking or biking instead of driving helps to reduce emissions.
Overall, the project aligns with both environmental goals and improved health, making it valuable across multiple dimensions.
The Results
From just staff changing over to electric cars alone, the savings of approximately 2500 miles a month /Â 30,000 miles per year. With a yearly savings of 5,465.10kg CO2e savings.Â
We have invested in three new vans, with improved energy efficiency, making them more environmentally friendly.
We have two employees who bike to work, and one waiting for the warmer months. One of these employees taking up the bike to work scheme. Saving many car journeys to and from work.
Two employees have taken up walking to and from work, not only saving the planet but improving physical and mental health.
Lastly four employees now car share, saving approximately 8,000 miles a year with a saving of 1,650kg CO2e
The Conclusion
We are really please with the outcome of this initiative which has helped to reduce our carbon footprint as a business and our overall impact on the planet just from our daily commute alone.
It has also helped to improve the health and wellbeing of a number of our team members, with the potential for more team members to benefit as they make changes to their commuting habits going forwards.
