Driving smarter saves money
Council employees across Worcestershire could save thousands of
pounds between them this year thanks to taking part in a training
programme aimed at helping them drive in a more environmentally
friendly manner.
Employees at Wyre Forest District and Redditch Borough Councils
are among the latest local authority employees to take part in a
smarter driving course – using real cars and a simulator - run
by the government funded Energy Saving Trust (EST) West Midlands
advice centre.
The course is designed to help drivers reduce their fuel
consumption by around 15% or £250 a year (based on 12,000 miles a
year).
The training course showed employees how to drive more
efficiently with the aim of reducing CO2 emissions, helping save
money on fuel, enabling the councils to reduce their transport
costs and improving the authorities' green credentials.
Councillor Marcus Hart, Wyre Forest District Council's Cabinet
Member for Housing & Environmental Services said,
"The event was such a success that our Environment &
Sustainability Team has invited the EST to return and carry out
more environmental activities including a Community Climate Change
Champions course.
"Wyre Forest District Council is keen to lead by example and
reduce carbon emissions. This includes encouraging our staff to
reduce their emissions both at work and at home, from various
sources including transport. We had very positive feedback from
staff who participated with all of them saving fuel."
On average, participants reduced fuel use by 16%, with average
savings of £228 and 483kg of CO2 per year. Top of the class was
Rafal Borzych an IT technician at Wyre Forest District Council who
could now save a massive £527 and 1.2 tonnes of CO2 per year
through smarter driving.
Rafal said,
"I'm still using techniques I learnt several weeks after the
event, so it looks like I've changed my driving habits. It's
surprising how small adjustments in the way you drive can add up to
big savings."
The courses are available to public sector organisations,
businesses and individuals.
For more tips on smarter driving or to book a course contact the
Energy Saving Trust advice centre on 0800 512 012, visit their website or
email the
EST
Photograph shows Councillor Marcus Hart with Rafal Borzych.
Date of issue - 12th August 2010