"Huge Staff Demand" for Smarter Travel

Six in ten employees would happily use car-sharing, cycle schemes and flexible working if their employer offered them, according to a survey by the National Business Travel Network.

Some 63% of 2,000 employees surveyed said they supported 'sustainable' travel plans that reduce unnecessary, costly and environmentally-damaging travel related to their work.

"The message is clear, flexible work styles and sustainable travel plans are good for the environment, good for business and good for employee well-being," said NBTN programme director Heather McInroy.

"Small firms should carry out a travel survey to find out what would make a difference to staff journeys," she added.

British Chamber of Commerce senior policy adviser, Gareth Elliott, added that travel plans could also help firms save money in the downturn.

"They are an excellent way of saving on costs and improving your cashflow. Having one helps attract and retain the best staff, they reduce your carbon footprint, and they can boost employee productivity," he said.

ACT TravelWise will be exhibiting at May’s Sustainability Live Event in Birmingham's NEC from May, 19 to May, 21 and entry is free. To register for tickets, go to www.sustainabilitylive.com.

“We’re here to show businesses how to develop a successful plan. It becomes clear very quickly once you implement your travel plan that there is a wide-range of benefits financially and environmentally for both the employer and their employees."

For further information and advice about sustainable travel and work travel plans, visit Moving Forward’s travel plan site.