Promoting green travel at the University

The recent Green Travel Week was the culmination of work carried out by the University's Green Travel Steering Group over the last two semesters. With information stands and representatives from staff, DUSA, Dundee Council and Travel Dundee answering questions, the aim was to raise awareness about green travel options open to staff and students.

Commenting on Green Travel Week, Convener of the Green Travel Steering Group Alan Tough said, "This event provided us with a great chance to find out how staff and students feel about sustainable travel and to answer their questions in person. Having representatives from Dundee Council was really useful, they have been extremely supportive in both the formation and the implementation of the University's travel plan."

Walking, cycling, car sharing and public transport are the key areas which the group has been focusing on, and a number of initiatives have been launched to encourage the University community to consider using these more sustainable modes of transport. "Initially initiatives will be concentrated in the main campus but will be extended shortly to our other campuses," said Alan.

To encourage greater use of public transport local company Travel Dundee have expressed an interest in offering staff a discounted year-long travel pass. The cost of taking two journeys each day between Monday and Friday over 48 weeks of the year is £528. Travel Dundee is offering the pass for £360 - a 32% discount. Information about local public transport can be obtained either via the travel planner kiosk in the tower reception area, or online at: www.dundeetravelinfo.com

Car sharing information has been circulated via Hermes and on the travel web pages at www.dundee.ac.uk/externalrelations/travelinfo Dundee Council has invested in a car share database which can used by anyone travelling to and from Dundee. A number of University staff have submitted their details to this car share database, which can be accessed at www.dundeeliftshare.com The University is currently investigating setting up a University-staff only section of this site.

For cyclists, a number of initiatives have been set up since last September. The formation of a Bicycles Users’ Group has created a voice for cyclists. Already, the requirements of cyclists are being considered in the development of the campus, free showers are being provided at the University swimming pool and a number of new cycle lockers are shortly to be installed across the main campus. To encourage more staff to travel to work using these sustainable modes of transport, Estates and Buildings are looking into setting up flexible car parking arrangements, including a pay and display option, for the start of the next semester. Further details on these developments will be provided to staff in due course. If you require any further information in the meantime contact travel@dundee.ac.uk or visit www.dundee.ac.uk/externalrelations/travelinfo