Workspaces are changing, and as environmental responsibility becomes even more crucial, businesses are uniquely positioned to spearhead the shift towards sustainable mobility. Embracing greener transportation options isn’t just about adhering to upcoming regulations—it’s about leading by example in the fight against climate change and contributing meaningfully to the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement.
Electrifying company fleets
The transition to electric vehicles (EVs) is at the forefront of corporate environmental strategies. As zero-emission zones become more prevalent, especially in larger municipalities starting in January 2025, updating company fleets to electric cars is beneficial and necessary. This move doesn’t just reduce carbon emissions; it prepares businesses for a future where traditional fuel vehicles will have restricted access. For businesses ready to switch, a checklist for transitioning to electric vehicles can provide a structured approach to achieving emission-free transport.
Do the license plate check to see whether you can enter the zone with your car.
Ridesharing
Another effective strategy is reducing the number of vehicles on the road. Offering shared electric cars to employees promotes a hybrid transportation model, where public transit, cycling, and shared vehicles coexist harmoniously. This not only lessens the company’s carbon footprint but also alleviates parking space constraints and reduces individual vehicle maintenance costs.
Navigating new reporting requirements
Come July 1, 2024, companies with 100 or more employees will encounter new reporting mandates concerning their staff’s travel. This legislation requires detailed annual reports on business and commuting traffic, segmented by transport type and fuel but not CO2 emissions. Understanding these requirements is crucial for compliance and for identifying areas where further efficiencies can be achieved.
Rethinking parking
Revamping company parking policies can also drive significant change. Limiting parking access to employees who commute more than 15 kilometres encourages alternative transport methods that contribute less to congestion and pollution.
Promoting public transport
Encouraging public transit use among employees by providing first-class travel plans or versatile public transport cards enriches the appeal of leaving the car at home. With the tax changes effective January 2024, employers can offer these benefits tax-free, provided they are also used for business purposes, making it an even more attractive option.
You can offer new staff free public transportation cards. To do so, use the working expenses scheme (WKR).
Note: As an employer, since 1 January 2024, you do not have to withhold payroll tax if you reimburse the cost of a public transportation card for your employee. Your employee must then also use the card for business purposes. It is easy to offer tax-free public transport cards.
Prioritising trains over planes
For international business travel, trains are an excellent alternative to planes, particularly for destinations within a 700-kilometre radius. Cities like Paris, Brussels, London, and Frankfurt are easily accessible by rail, offering a sustainable option that rivals flight times without the high carbon cost.
Cycling to work
Integrating bicycles into the corporate mobility strategy not only caters to short commutes but also enhances employee well-being. Whether it’s traditional bicycles, e-bikes, or speed pedelecs, the tax benefits for companies incorporating bike schemes are substantial and worth exploring.
Find out more about the options for a company bicycle.
Embracing remote work
Finally, one of the most effective ways to cut carbon emissions is to reduce travel altogether. By enabling remote work, companies can significantly decrease their overall environmental impact while also adapting to modern work preferences.
Check out the possibilities for a homework allowance through the work-related costs (WKR). Consider heating, water, electricity, tea, coffee, and toilet paper costs. And read more about what is and is not allowed when working from home.
Conclusion
As businesses continue to innovate in how they facilitate work and mobility, the adoption of green practices becomes increasingly integrated with corporate identity. These changes, while beneficial environmentally and economically, also reflect a growing cultural shift towards sustainability in the business world.
What are your thoughts on these strategies for sustainable business mobility? Do you think these initiatives are enough to make a significant impact on corporate carbon footprints?
