Certifying as a European Cycle Friendly Employer to cut Scope 3 transport emissions

The European Commission has introduced the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) this year, requiring organisations to demonstrate their impact both within and outside the business. This directive emphasises the significance of demonstrating how sustainability influences a company and organisation.

Cycling is a transport mode that reduces an employers and its employees impact on the environment reducing carbon emissions. Employers are increasingly realising the importance of initiatives that not only reduce carbon footprints but also improve employee wellbeing and engagement too . Establishing as European Cycle Friendly Employer Certification program from the European Cyclist Federation (ECF) ticks all the right boxes, delivering an improved environment and more engaged people in work with cycling. You also complete an action on the National Sustainable Mobility Policy from the Department of Transport and Government of Ireland.

Certification demonstrates employers are focused on reaching Ireland's 2030 transport targets. These goals are to increase active travel by 50%, cut vehicle kilometres by 20%, and reduce car journeys by 25%.

Why Certify as a Cycle Friendly Employer?

Aligning with Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainable Development

The business community is under pressure to demonstrate actionable commitments to the environment in Carbon Disclosure Reports and response to Corporate Sustainability Report Directive standards.

Cycle Friendly Employer Certification goes beyond other sustainability certifications focusing on active travel cycling through behavioural change to increase participation alongside providing the services and facilities for cycling to take place. By showing that your organisation is willing to take the lead in reducing carbon emissions and fostering a healthier community, you align with corporate social responsibility directives gaining valuable support for your ESG initiatives too. This not only enhances your brand's image, but it can also play a vital role for stakeholders and potential customers, particularly as suppliers undergo assessments in tenders and procurement processes that prioritise sustainability to secure contracts and win work.

Attracting and Retaining Top Talent

Millennials and Gen Z are two demographics that set great store by an employer’s societal and environmental engagement. When these individuals are seeking employment, organisations with a demonstrated commitment to eco-friendliness and employee health have a substantial edge. Furthermore, once in a job, employees are more likely to stay with an employer who values their well-being. A cycle friendly workplace doesn’t just attract talent; it helps to keep it too.

Benefits of Cycle Friendly Certification

Environmental Impact and Corporate Sustainability

Encouraging cycling as a mode of daily transport significantly slashes an organisation’s carbon footprint. With transport being a leading cause of air pollution and a third of all greenhouse gases in the EU coming from transportation, promoting cycling can mean a substantial reduction in harmful emissions. For organisations with set carbon reduction targets, the impact is not insignificant especially as transport emissions are the often the highest emission in an organisation due to employee commuting and business travel.

Improved Employee Well-being and Productivity

Initiatives that promote physical activity, such as cycling, have profound effects on the health of employees. Lowered stress levels, increased alertness, and overall improved well-being are direct benefits that positively influence work performance. Active Travel cycling commuting has proven to lower obesity.

Cost Savings and Reduced Congestion

The benefits of cycling also extend to the balance sheet. Companies that take active steps to reduce their overhead costs and boost productivity through better employee health and well-being will find that the savings speak for themselves.

Its simple to certify here is how

There's no minimum standard needed, and we're here to support you all the way to earn that gold award and kickstart cycling at your workplace to cut transport emissions and deliver upon Irelands Climate Action Plan. Start by signing up with your personalised portal login here to fill out the self-evaluation. It usually takes 10 to 15 minutes. If you're unsure about an answer, no worries! Certifications are tailored to your capabilities so you won't be penalized for not meeting certain standards.

Get Started here and support Ireland's Climate Action