STAFF from the Environment Agency’s Warrington office ditched their cars in favour of bicycles to mark “Cycle to Work” day
They commuted from across the town and beyond using old-fashioned pedal power to help make the borough a healthier place to live and work.
As part of the initiative, the Environment Agency and partners including Cheshire Police, Warrington Borough Council, I Cycle Electric and D&M Cycles organised a “Cycle to Work Day” celebration at the agency’s office on Knutsford Road.
Staff were encouraged to test out both electric and standard bike models from local businesses as well as have their own bikes safety checked by Velo-Tech (Cheshire) and “tagged” by the police.
Simon Dawes, head of sustainable business for the Environment Agency, said: “As a people-and environment orientated business, we are always looking for new and innovative ways to help our staff improve their wellbeing and encourage sustainable behaviours.
“The Environment Agency is part of a bold ambition to make Greater Manchester carbon neutral by 2038 as well as playing a significant role in Liverpool’s Year of the Environment activities where clean air is a key theme.
“We are already making progress within our own offices by turning our fleet cars electric but when 30 per cent of all car journeys are currently less than 1km and 60 per cent-plus are less than five miles within the UK, it is clear that more change is needed.
“Biking to work is great on many levels. It’s low carbon for a start and there are countless benefits for people, the environment and the wallet, which makes it a truly sustainable option. It also helps us to be a considerate member of the community we are in by reducing congestion for staff travelling to our offices.
“Events like Cycle to Work Day really do offer more environmentally-friendly lifestyles and as a keen cyclist myself, it was a fantastic opportunity to try out the latest technological advances in pedal power vs petrol. Everyday cycling can be for everyone and we hope our staff and partners continue to take up the challenge as a result of the Cycle to Work campaign.”
