Member Article

‘It’s Nicer to Share’ - Car Sharing Scheme en route to success

A car sharing scheme created by Go Smarter - Tyne and Wear’s sustainable travel programme - is gaining momentum after a series of Roadshows to promote the initiative to businesses in Tyne and Wear. Share Smarter encourages individuals and employees to car share to work, helping car users save money on petrol and parking, reduce their carbon footprint and help ease congestion on busy roads.

The Share Smarter team has been hosting a series of Roadshows in key employment areas around Tyne and Wear over the past week to encourage businesses and employees to take part in the scheme. The next Share Smarter Roadshow is at intu Metrocentre on Tuesday 2 December.

Details of the Share Smarter scheme can be found on the Share Smarter website (www.sharesmarter.co.uk), including information on how to find a car sharing buddy, how to register for free advice and promotional materials for businesses to help get the scheme off the ground within their organisation.

Nick Clennett, Senior Responsible Officer for Go Smarter, said: “The Share Smarter scheme has been running for some time but is really gaining popularity as more and more people realise the benefits of car sharing, especially now the nights are getting darker and colder.

“Car sharing can help reduce fuel and parking costs, reduce congestion and provide you with company and conversation while you travel to and from work.

“It’s a great way to meet new people or get to know colleagues better and adds extra security to your journey. It is particularly beneficial for those working unsociable hours, on shifts, or living where public transport is limited.

“You don’t have to be a daily commuter, the great thing about the Share Smarter scheme that it’s completely up to you how it works. Car sharing can work for getting to group work outings and conferences, as well as daily commutes to work.

“For employers using a car sharing scheme at work is a fantastic way to boost the business’ green credentials. It reduces the need for car parking spaces, allows colleagues to form closer working relationships and cuts down on mileage expenses.”

For companies with more than 100 employees on a single site or for those situated on a business park, Share Smarter offers a free sub-scheme.

Nick continued: “Many members of staff feel more comfortable sharing with people who work at the same organisation and a sub-scheme such as ours means staff have the option to search and be contacted only by their colleagues.

’’Share Smarter is a fantastic scheme and I would encourage more businesses, small or large, to take part.“

Anyone interested in car sharing with a colleague can visit www.sharesmarter.co.uk to find out more on the benefits of car sharing and register for free.

Go Smarter, Tyne and Wear’s sustainable travel programme, encourages schools and businesses to think about their travel choices by promoting walking, cycling, public transportation and car sharing in order to reduce traffic, help the environment and keep people fit and active.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Astute.Work .