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Companies take initiative in reducing congestion and emissions
In a joint attempt to combat traffic congestion and emissions, Dutch companies and regional governments have struck an ambitious deal.
This looks promising... (Photo: TFMM)
The so-called Task Force Mobility Management presented its advice to Ministers Mr. Camiel Eurlings (Transport) and Ms. Jacqueline Cramer (Environment). If followed, it is expected to lead to an approximate five per cent decrease of distance traveled during peak hours.
Shared responsibility
Major employers, trade unions, chambers of commerce and regional governments from six top conurbations have voluntarily signed binding agreements. By doing so, employers will not be subjected to additional national legislation.
However, it was not just looming laws that convinced the companies to act. At the Mobius certificate award ceremony, Mr. Willem de Jager of Rabobank – one of fifteen Task Force members – indicated that as a major employer in the Utrecht region, his organisation feels partially responsible for keeping the city accessible.
Ms. Cramer (Photo: TFMM)
Personal mobility budget
One of the key ingredients is the introduction of a personal mobility budget. Employees will receive a fixed budget for their daily commute, irrespective of what means of transport they use. Any amount left over at the end of the month will be added to the employee's salary and is nontaxable. It is hoped that employees will look for more economically efficient ways to travel to work.
Happy
"Solutions that originate within companies are the best guarantee for success. It’s up to the national government to be ambitious as well," Ms. Cramer said. If money equals ambition, the signs may be promising – an enthusiastic Mr. Eurlings promised to make 100 million euros available in a bid to further strengthen the initiative.
Mr. Eurlings (Photo: TFMM)
Monitoring
Progress and results will be closely monitored and shared with all parties involved. Except for "adjusting" plans, no further measures have been agreed on in the case of targets not being met.
Who’s next?
Besides the initial participating conurbations of Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Utrecht, The Hague, Arnhem/Nijmegen and Eindhoven/Den Bosch, others are to follow suit. The regions of Dordrecht and Twente have already announced their intention to participate.
Sources
- Press release Task Force Mobility Management (Dutch)
- Advice: tax measures against traffic congestion
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