As spring brings longer and warmer days, it's an opportune moment to consider altering your daily commute. This change not only promotes your physical and mental health but also contributes to a greener environment and a reduced carbon footprint.
Many members of staff already commute by walking, cycling or even by e-scooter, without relying on a vehicle. There are several options available to you. You can start your active journey to campus whether you walk or cycle. It’s cost-effective and lets you maximise the sunnier and longer days ahead.
Last month, it was brilliant to bring staff members together for a mass cycle, walk and run to campus as part of Green Week. We held a great variety of events to promote active commuting, including a very busy Dr Bike session, to provide free basic servicing and repairs for bikes. Don’t worry if you missed out; our next Dr Bike session will be on Wednesday 1 May, alongside other stallholders where you can get:
- free travel planning advice
- free bike security marking
- trial various e-bike models
- get advice on hiring Tier e-bikes and e-scooters
You can visit these stallholders in front of the library on the Parade. Dr Bike will be located in front of the School of Management.
Find out more about free travel events taking place on Wednesday 1 May.
Did you know that by walking or cycling instead of driving from the city to campus for just 5 days, you could reduce your carbon footprint by 7kg CO2e? Changing the way that you travel is one of the biggest ways that you can reduce your personal carbon footprint.
Discover how the University can support your active commute
We all have a role in our fight against the climate crisis, and the University has a number of active travel schemes to support you in joining our fantastic community of cycling, running and walking commuters:
- Cycle-to-work scheme: This is a salary sacrifice scheme, where you give up part of your salary before tax and national insurance in exchange for a bicycle and/or safety equipment. The spend limit for this scheme has been increased up to £5,000 to enable colleagues to purchase an e-bike if they wish.
- Bicycle and equipment: The University offers interest-free loans for purchasing bicycles and other accessories.
- Join the Bicycle Users Group to connect with fellow cyclists, to share top tips, latest news and advice about best routes.
- Join the Riding In & Out group on Teams, where you can join monthly staff cycle commutes.
We understand that cycling or walking to campus may not be possible or realistic for everyone, and the University provides support for colleagues who can travel by public transport. Find out more about interest-free loans for public transport season passes and discounted bus fares.
There are many benefits to changing up your daily commute and opting for more sustainable travel options. From reducing your carbon footprint and improving local air quality to improving your physical and mental wellbeing, it’s definitely worth considering.
You can make a big impact by making small changes to your daily routine. Let’s work together to create a more sustainable future for all!