Energy Rethinking - use less save more

Traffic jams cost money, pour carbon into the atmosphere and add to the pressures of urban and suburban life.

In London (the slowest city in Europe according to RoadTransport.com)  the average traffic speed estimates range from 6.5 to 12 mph. The rest of the UK and much of Europe is not travelling much faster.

Of the many solutions proposed to tackle the problems of urban gridlock,  lift sharing, or carpooling as they call it in North America, could be one of the easiest and the cheapest. It turns out that it’s also a great way to relieve stress and build social networks.

During the next few weeks, energyrethinking.org will looking at ways businesses and individuals can plan and implement a lift sharing scheme.

Here’s why Lift Sharing is Such a Good Idea

For Employers:

• Having fewer parking spaces costs less. The Department of Transport (DoT) estimates that a lift-sharing scheme can cut employee demand for parking by 50%. And, according to Transport for London (TfL) every parking space is worth about £2,000.
• Reduced local congestion makes a visible commitment to the community for a better public image.
• Numbers of cars and of participating employees are both measurable contributions to sustainability and other green targets.
• If local public transportation is limited, lift-sharing can help businesses recruit from a wider area.
• People who travel home together tend to talk over work issues, improving the internal social networks and actually increasing the productive work day.

For Employees

• Saving money can’t be beat as an incentive. In its report, Making Car Sharing and Car Clubs Work, the DoT estimates the average motorist can save at least £1,000 a year on fuel, parking and running costs.
• Saving time. In urban area or large and crowded employee parking lots, circling around looking for a parking spot wastes time, nibbling into either “at home” time or the working day.
• Safety in numbers. Traveling with others, especially down quiet roads or after dark can feels more secure especially if you have a breakdown.
• Less traffic jam stress. Have you noticed how a long journey is shorter when there’s someone to talk to? Commuting in a group can be a sociable way to start the day.
• Better work/life balance. In a competitive office environment, it’s easier to leave on time when a group commutes together.

More Lift Sharing Resources

Department for Transport, Making Car Sharing and Car Clubs Work

Car Clubs and Car Sharing 

London Liftshare