The popularity of car sharing was highlighted by new research unveiled by Transport Minister Rosie Winterton. The popularity of car sharing is rising.

New Department for Transport research – ‘Public Experiences of Car Sharing’ – showed that 61% of those surveyed had taken part in car sharing during the past month.

Car sharing is important because it reduces congestion.

It tackles pollution and carbon emissions. And, importantly, cuts the costs of travelling.

The survey – the first ever undertaken by the Department into levels of car sharing – showed that:

• 61% of those surveyed had taken part in some form of car sharing in the past month
• 28% said the lift took place at least once a week
• 25% of those receiving a lift said the last journey was work or business related
• 1% of respondents said they were a member of a formal lift sharing scheme run by their employer or other organisation.

While this research shows that informal car sharing is popular, it highlights that formal schemes run by employers are still in a minority.

I encourage employers to consider whether introducing a car sharing scheme for their organisation could help them reduce their carbon footprint. And provide quicker, more convenient journeys for staff.

Further information

• To find the research ‘Public Experiences of Car Sharing’ click here on the DfT website
• The Department for Transport has published guidance for employers considering implementing a workplace travel plan, including car sharing schemes. ‘The Essential Guide to Travel Planning’ can be found within the ‘Environment & efficiency’ section at Business Link
• For more on the National Business Travel Network go to www.nbtn.org.uk
• Go to the Business Car Manager Downloads area for a free Advice Centre download on How to reduce your environmental impact