Green Commuting - P2Rx Wiki

Green commuting emphasizes transportation options that reduce fossil fuel consumption and carbon emissions for each person-mile traveled. Examples of travel options often suggested include public transportation, carpooling, bicycling, walking, busing, and driving hybrid or electric vehicles. Companies that develop commuter benefit programs which promote green commuting save money and enhance their corporate environmental responsibility.

The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) have collaborated to create an initiative that promotes green commuting programs for employers. The initiative is administered by the Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR) and utilizes the Best Workplaces for Commuters (BWC) program in order to recognize companies for outstanding commuter benefits.

EPA’s National Standard of Excellence is a common benchmark used by the BWC in order to evaluate commuter benefit programs. Commuter benefit programs must meet five criteria in order to meet the National Standard of Excellence.

• Provide one primary commuter benefit such as a tax-free vanpool benefit or transit pass that offers a minimum subsidy of $30 per month for not using company parking, a parking cash-out option to give up a free parking space, or establishing a telecommuting program that reduces commuting by at least 6%.

• Provide three supporting commuter benefits including incentives for carpooling, flexible work schedules, shuttle services, bicycle lockers or on-site amenities such as cafeterias, showers and dry cleaning facilities.

• Institute a “Guaranteed Ride Home” program that is available to employees for emergencies.

• Employ a benefits coordinator who staff can reach in regards to utilizing commuter services.

• Meet a performance standard within 18 months that requires a minimum of 14% of employees not driving alone to work.

The BWC releases an annual list of the top 20 best workplaces for commuters from the Fortune 500 companies and provides a complete list of all companies that meet the EPA’s National Standard of Excellence on their website.

Green commuting refers to alternative ways for employees to commute to the workplace in order to reduce the individual carbon footprint and improve employer's environmental position by promoting sustainable travel options.