Cycling to work saves more than 100,000 tonnes of CO2 a year

More than 100,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) have been saved every year through employees cycling to work, according to research by the Cycle to Work Alliance.

Its Green way to work report, which surveyed 18,500 employees who use a bikes-for-work scheme, found that respondents save 112,210 tonnes of CO2 in reduced car emissions every year.

The research also found that more than two-thirds (67%) of respondents would travel to work by car if they did not cycle to work. Respondents cycle more than 13 million miles per week.

The research also found:

• 54% of respondents did not cycle to work before signing up to the scheme.
• 72% would not have bought their bike if it had not been available through the scheme.
• 98% of respondents would encourage their colleagues to participate in the scheme. 

Norman Baker, minister for cycling, said: “I am delighted to see that the [bikes-for-work scheme] continues to grow, and it is encouraging that findings in this report show more and more commuters are looking towards cycling as their main mode of transport to work.

“By boosting the number of people who travel to work by bike, the scheme is making a tangible contribution to addressing the government’s commitment to reduce the country’s carbon emissions and create sustainable growth.”

Steve Edgell, chair of the Cycle to Work Alliance and director of Cycle Solutions, added: “This research is important in demonstrating the benefit of the [bikes-for-work scheme] in achieving the government’s sustainable transport objectives.

“It highlights how the scheme encourages commuters to give up expensive and environmentally unfriendly cars, and instead look to cycling as a sustainable alternative.  

“Our research shows how the scheme is mutually beneficial to both employees and employers, and we look forward to continue to help the government in promoting the benefits of cycling.”