Cycle to work
In
the UK, road transport contributes approximately 70% of the air
pollution in towns and cities and 22% of the total CO2 emissions.
In addition, there are lots of practical reasons to cycle to
work.
- Money saved in petrol and parking
- Often quicker than the car in congested urban streets with
limited parking
- Will help fitness levels and improve health
- Saves paying for gym fees
Some employers have signed up to a "Cycle 2 Work scheme" and
this is a great way to buy an affordable bike and equipment and
receive a large saving at the same time.
The typical saving for the average taxpayer is around 32%.
Ask your employeror visit Cycle scheme for more
information.
Why not start a bicycle user group, or 'BUG' at work? Below are
a few ideas of the type of benefits BUG's have been able to
organise:
- Discounts for staff with local cycle retailers and negotiate a
supply of useful equipment available to purchase in the work
place
- Better facilities in the work place
- Regular social rides
- Bike buddy system: matches people who are cycling the same way
so they can ride together - especially good when experienced riders
can help new or novice riders become more confident
- Produce a regular newsletter
- Set up a BUG website or intranet site
- Organise a Doctor Bike event
- Arrange regular lunchtime talks or presentations about
cycling
- Run a cyclists' information service supplying free maps,
leaflets and other advice
- Produce a site map showing the location of cycle parking
stands, showers, etc.
- Organise a cyclists' breakfast during Bike Week
- Provide volunteers who will help mend punctures and carry out
emergency repairs for fellow members of staff
- Conduct a quarterly 'cycle census' to count the number of bikes
on-site and record any changes and progress.