Action on Climate Change: Transport

Examples of what Wealden is doing with regard to transport, and ideas on what you can do.

Examples of what Wealden is doing

Refuse vehicles exceed European standards on emissions
Refuse rounds scheduled for efficiency
Rounds are setup for maximum efficiency reducing emissions and saving fuel costs.
Wealden Car Lease Scheme for Officers limited by carbon dioxide emissions
The Wealden Car Lease Scheme is now limited by carbon dioxide emission rather than engine size, encouraging users to choose models with less carbon dioxide emissions.
Examined the use of biofuels in the municipal fleet
Currently only a 5% mix of biofuel (fuel manufactured from commercially grown crops such as wheat, oil seed rape or sugar beet) could be used in the existing fleet. A higher percentage mix would mean the conversion would outweigh the cost saved on using biofuel, so this is not currently viable. This is a developing area of technology so this may change, or other alternatives may become viable.

Take fewer flights if possible
Avoid short-haul flights where there are alternatives
If you must fly, consider offsetting your carbon dioxide emissions
However, planting trees is only a temporary fix and carbon dioxide burnt from fossil fuels is released permanently. For offsetting see CO2 Balance

Decrease the frequency of car journeys
Where possible plan ahead so you are not driving unnecessarily.
Try to travel when there is less traffic on the road
This will help to use less fuel
When buying a new car check fuel consumption figures
Use driving techniques to lower fuel consumption
Driving techniques can also help to lower fuel use, for example watching revs, driving smoothly and planning ahead, and keeping tyres inflated to the correct pressure. See here for tips from the Energy Saving Trust (opens as a pdf).
Car share
Car sharing with colleagues or other parents on the school run, will help share fuel costs and help the environment.
Report abandoned cars
Abandoned cars are an eyesore and can be dangerous. The materials from abandoned cars can be recycled. Wealden District Council will remove abandoned cars.

Where possible walk or cycle
Most journeys taken are very short so walking or cycling can often replace the car, it is healthier for you and helps reduce emissions.
Use public transport where possible
A full bus or train is much more environemtnally friendly than a signle person in a car. Traveline is a web based service that can calculate the best route between points using public transport.