Sustrans Cymru launches travel challenge to transform the Welsh commute

Leading sustainable transport charity, Sustrans Cymru has launched an all-Wales travel challenge to get Wales walking, cycling and using public transport for the daily commute.  ‘Cymru Travel Challenge’ runs from 6th to 23rd May and will see people in workplaces throughout the country leaving their cars at home and choosing greener modes of transport.  Individuals, departments and entire workplaces are welcome to take part, the challenge is completely free and provides an ideal way to get staff working together to make a move towards a healthier lifestyle.  Several prizes are to be won including: £100 to donate to the winner’s charity of choice, vouchers for Wiggle, Cotswold’s Outdoor and the cinema.

In addition to the prizes, taking part in the challenge has numerous benefits for both employers and employees.  Leaving the car at home means that employees can save money on petrol, experience improved health and well-being and do their bit for the environment.  The interactive website calculates money and C02 savings, calories burnt and miles clocked so that employees can monitor their progress as they go along.

Workplaces of all types and sizes have signed up to the challenge; Dŵr Cymru, GE Aviation, Cardiff and the Vale Health Board, Capita Property and Infrastructure, Dolmans Solicitors and many, many more.  It’s not too late to sign up, those who want to be a part of the challenge can register here: https://travelchallenge.getmeactive-cymru.org.uk/users/register

Jane Lorimer, National Director at Sustrans Cymru said:

‘‘I am thrilled we are launching this interactive platform that will encourage workplaces to take an active role in getting their staff to use healthier modes of transport.  We know that building physical activity into our everyday activities improves our health and well-being which is a crucial contributor to a successful workforce.

Staff will have fun taking part in the challenge and will be doing their bit for the environment and their well-being. Several organisations have already shown great enthusiasm and we hope that companies of all sizes will follow suit.’’

Fiona Jehu, Sustainability Co-ordinator at Dŵr Cymru, who have taken part in Sustrans’ previous workplace challenge said:

‘‘The Challenge focused our thinking, helped us promote the initiative and provided assistance to record our improved sustainable travel habits.’’

Registration for May’s challenge is open today, for more information and to register visit this page: https://travelchallenge.getmeactive-cymru.org.uk/