For many of us that are concerned with climate change, we’re discovering more ways of being eco-friendly to the environment or sustainable to help further lower our own carbon footprints. A lot of businesses have introduced cycle-to-work schemes which are designed to encourage their employees to use bicycles to get to work, rather than using public transport or other private vehicles like a motorbike or car, that contribute negatively to carbon emissions.
How effective has the cycle-to-work scheme become? Are there certain parts of the country that are embracing the cycle-to-work scheme more than others? According to data from the Office of National Statistics, Planet X looked at different regions by population to understand just how many employees and those working full-time, who cycle to work over using public transport and their own cars.
According to the statistics found by Planet X, the most successful cycle-to-work schemes were in Greater London. It makes the most sense that a big city like London would have the most effective schemes in place. Living in London myself, it’s easy to see that cycling has become a lot more popular in the city. Getting to and from work via a bicycle is often more time-effective than taking a bus or using public transport. You certainly wouldn’t want to drive around London for work, especially as you’re likely to be stuck in traffic for most of the time.
The region that came out with the lowest overall score was the West Midlands. There didn’t seem to be a lot of interest in businesses or individuals looking to take up cycle-to-work schemes either, with the average monthly search volume being 576 for the term ‘cycle to work’.
There are still cities within West Midlands like Birmingham for example, that could benefit greatly from introducing this scheme. However, that does require both businesses and individuals to be proactive in their efforts to introduce the scheme to the workforce.
Why are cycle-to-work schemes beneficial?
While I wouldn’t see myself cycling around London due to working from home, there are a lot of benefits that come from cycle-to-work schemes beyond just the environmental benefit. Here are a few considerations that both businesses and individuals should think about when it comes to introducing or encouraging the implentation of this scheme.
It saves money on transport
With the cost of living crisis in full-swing, every penny matters. Getting public transport is costly and something that isn’t easy to afford each month. That’s why many opt for the cycle-to-work scheme because they can save a lot of their monthly paypacket when it comes to getting transport in and out of work every day.
The average cost of owning and maintaining a bike is £396 a year according to statistics found by Planet X. In comparison, you’re likely to spend around £797.33 annually depending on the amount of miles you’re doing. That doesn’t include all of the extra costs that come with maintaining a vehicle like a car.
Save tax and NI
With tax and NI benefits on new bikes, you can save up to 47% when it comes to your tax payments and national insurance contributions. It’s something that all helps towards saving money on your annual salary.
You get fitter and healthier
With cycling to work every day, one of the major benefits that come with cycling is that you’ll get fitter and healthier. Depending on how far you travel for work, you could be doing anything from one or two miles, to several. That increase in exercise every day is surely going to help you feel better in yourself both on the inside and out. If you’re looking for a quick and effective way to tone up or lose weight, cycling can certainly help with that.
Helps the planet get better
Of course, the best benefit that comes with cycle-to-work schemes are that they’re helping to make the planet a better place as a result. With fewer carbon emissions being produced, it gives the planet a better opportunity and chance of thriving for longer. With more people cycling than driving on the road or taking public transport, a lot of damage can be avoided.
What do you think of cycle-to-work schemes?
What do you think of cycle-to-work schemes? Do you think they’re effective? Do you use it within your workplace? Let me know in the comments below. Personally, I think they’re a great option to have and should be considered by more people. However, I think it’s also important to have more driver awareness on looking out for cyclists and treating them with more care while on the road.
