Union action on green transport

The survey contained many examples of union reps successfully negotiating green transport initiatives, based on their knowledge of what would be well received by employees, despite sometimes encountering little support from the employer.

Prospect reps at a scientific centre in Scotland have secured cycle shelters. UNISON reps at EDF Energy explain that environment reps organise annual "Cycle Surgeries" which involves a local charity cycle campaigner visiting the office to MOT bikes and offer cycling tips and freebies. Prospect reps working for a weapons manufacturer saw that shower facilities were installed for cyclists and the creation of dedicated parking for car sharers. A GMB rep in local government describes how the union successfully campaigned for a cycle scheme and a shared driving scheme.

Prospect reps at a utility company were pivotal in the introduction of a shuttle bus for employees, while a PCS rep explained how the union negotiated increases in subsidies for public transport use when the employer relocated to an area that meant increased travel for many employees.

Meanwhile, a Unite rep at software company has had great success in pushing telephone conferencing or video conferencing over travel.

CWU reps working for mail distributor Parcelforce have pushed for the purchasing of greener vehicles. At the Department for Work and Pensions, a PCS green rep is working with other reps in the branch to hold an event to promote more car sharing and other public transport. At a recycling company, a GMB rep says that management is looking at using cooking oil for fuel, following an employee’s suggestion.