Work commute

Calculate your commuting carbon footprint

Commuting to work is a daily routine for many of us, but the way you do it has a big impact on the environment. Use our calculator to measure your commute's impact on the environment.
Work Commute Calculator

CO2e per year

Emissions from transportation make up around 17% of all global greenhouse gas emissions, and commuting to work is a major contributor to this figure. While individual commutes may seem insignificant, when multiplied by the millions of commuters worldwide, the resulting carbon emissions are substantial.

Fortunately, there are plenty of sustainable alternatives to the typical one-person-one-car commute:
Local Bus
Taking the bus instead of driving can reduce your carbon emissions significantly, with the average bus trip emissions being around 43% lower than the average car journey.
Trains
Taking the train is an even better way to reduce your carbon footprint. Train travel produces almost 80% fewer carbon emissions compared to driving an average car.
Telecommuting
Telecommuting involves working from home instead of going to the office. This is a great option for those who have jobs that can be done remotely. However, just because you’re saving on commuting emissions doesn’t mean you’re not making up for them by being at home.
Walking and Cycling
Walking or cycling to work are the most sustainable commuting options, with zero carbon emissions. Not only are these options environmentally friendly, but they can also improve your health and well-being.
Electric or Hybrid Cars
If you must drive to work, consider using an electric or hybrid vehicle. Electric cars produce around 70% fewer emissions than an average car. Plus, with more and more charging stations being installed around the world, it's becoming easier to find a place to charge your electric vehicle.
Carpooling
Carpooling involves sharing a car journey with one or more co-workers. This can significantly reduce the number of cars on the road and, therefore, reduce carbon emissions. Depending on the number of people you carpool with, you could be slashing your emissions by up to 80%!
It's important to acknowledge that not everyone has the luxury of choosing sustainable transportation options. For many people, factors such as location, income, and accessibility may limit their options for commuting to work. Some people may live in areas with limited access to public transportation, others may have jobs that require them to travel long distances or at odd hours, making carpooling or public transportation unfeasible. Additionally, the cost of sustainable transportation options, such as buying an electric car or even a bike, is prohibitive for some.

Understanding the barriers to sustainable transport is vital in order to create real change. Engaging with employers regarding these challenges can pave the way to policies and initiatives that facilitate safe, equitable, and sustainable transportation options.

How to spark change in your workplace and beyond

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Start a conversation

Speak to your employer about the importance of sustainable commuting and its benefits, such as reducing carbon emissions, fostering a healthier workforce, and improving employee satisfaction. Share your research and highlight the potential cost savings from reduced parking and fuel expenses.
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Gather support

Rally your co-workers around the idea of sustainable commuting. Encourage them to share their experiences, concerns, and suggestions. This will help build a strong case for change and show your employer that there is widespread interest in promoting sustainable commuting options.
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Utilise technology

Present tools like FutureTracker, which help companies to measure, manage, and reduce their carbon footprint. FutureTracker can help companies foster a culture of environmental responsibility by involving, educating, and empowering staff from all levels of the business, helping them to build a sustainable culture that lasts for years to come.

So let's get started.

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