print versionTen steps to kick the CO2 habit
Masterlease is urging fleets across the globe to support World Environment Day by taking simple steps to kick the CO2 habit.
Masterlease has developed ten steps that businesses can follow to reduce the carbon footprint and fuel expenditure from their vehicle fleets:
1. Measure business mileage. Even where this is logged for company car drivers, the business mileage in private vehicles is often hidden in the expenses system.
2. Reduce driver mileage by making sure alternatives are available and understood by all employees including:
a. Car sharing for commuting and business travel
b. Public transport links are publicised
c. Short term vehicle hire or pool cars will provide insurance risk cover and ensure business mileage is done in the most economical vehicles
d. More video and tele-conferencing
e. Better journey planning
3. Make sure CO2 figures are clearly shown and highlighted in all vehicle choice lists
4. Offer incentives to drivers who choose the greener option, ie: money back schemes for those who drive lower emission vehicles or reduce vehicle choice and stipulate certain fuel types
5. Lead by example and encourage the senior team to choose lower emission cars
6. Review any cash options offered as an alternative to the company car. Research shows that drivers are 25% more likely to choose a more polluting vehicle when opting out of the company scheme.
7. Review your mileage allowances. Getting rid of higher reimbursement levels for drivers of bigger cars could dissuade people from choosing higher fuel consuming cars. It may also help reduce mileage, whether in a company car or own vehicle. If free private fuel is still offered, in most cases replacing this benefit with a fixed allowance is more cost effective for the employer and employee and this can reduce mileage.
8. Consider the use of short term hire vehicles for business mileage for those without a company vehicle. It allows you to dictate vehicle class, it can be a cheaper option than a pence per mile allowance, and it can also mitigate duty of care risks, with a known standard of vehicle, and insurance cover through your corporate policy.
9. Vehicles perform to their best when properly serviced. Ensure all vehicles are maintained according to the manufacturer’s recommended schedule.
10. Encourage drivers to check tyre pressures regularly. Under/over inflated tyres can impact on fuel economy and safety.
Contact
To find out how Masterlease can help you reduce your carbon savings and reduce your operating costs or for more information on ‘going green’, please contact us.
