Joanna Flint from Green Commute Initiative explores how active travel will be the key for commuting post- Covid-19.
There is no doubt that one of the heroes of the Covid-19 crisis is the humble bicycle.
During lockdown, key workers from across the UK have struggled to get to work with public transport options limited as well as seeking to avoid sharing enclosed spaces with other passengers.
Luckily for many, the bicycle has come to the rescue. Commuters have taken control of their transport, with many choosing active travel options such as walking and cycling.
This change in commuter behaviour has had a hugely significant, positive impact on our air quality. The amount of toxic air that we breathe has fallen dramatically and those living in areas where illegally high levels of dirty air have been previously recorded have enjoyed cleaner air and a reduction of lung-related health problems.
Dirty air causes the hospitalisation and premature deaths of 40,000 people every year. It’s imperative we preserve these clearer skies for the benefit of all and to protect the NHS.
To describe the bicycle as humble is probably not accurate, what with the advent of the electric bike and other technical advances. Inevitably, these bikes will have higher price tags, and this is where the Cycle to Work Scheme has helped so many during this time of national emergency.
Through the Cycle to Work Scheme, participants can save 32–47% on a new bike package, giving more people access to commuter-quality bikes.
The industry-leading scheme provider is Green Commute Initiative with no £1,000 limit and no scheme exit fees. Employers do not need to register. Instant GCI is a pay-as-you-go scheme with a 24-48-hour turnaround time.
GCI’s scheme is truly flexible, with options to extend the salary sacrifice period over 12-60 months. Employers also save 13.8% on reduced NICs.
The Cycle to Work Scheme has without doubt enabled many people to continue carrying out their essential work at a time of national importance.
It’s also important to remember cycling greatly benefits individual mental health, physical fitness and boosts staff morale. Crucially, cycling reduces the amount of toxic air we breathe, and that benefits us all.
To find out more, call 020 3740 1836 or visit greencommuteinitiative.uk
