The impact of mobility of our CO2 footprint is substantial. Commuting and business travel together contribute around 10.000 tonnes CO2. This is 31% of the entire UT CO2 footprint. UT aims to reduce its CO2 footprint by 15% in 2023, thus we have to develop guidelines and implement measures so employees and students of UT can achieve this target together.
Guidelines
Elements of UT’s Corona mobility framework (all details on the corona portal) that we will continue to promote (also after we have a vaccine and we have returned to a stable commuting situation):
- Use the bike for distances up to 15km
- Work trips < 800km, take the train
- Work from home
- Avoid travelling during rush hour
Cycling mission: 10% more people come to the UT by bike
The Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management is launching a mission for Higher Education to get 10% more people to work by bike. Using a bike as part of the commute (to get to a train station) is also encouraged. Have a look on: www.kiesdefiets.nl or https://www.rij2op5.nl/.
Cycling for international students & staff
Most Dutch people learn to cycle from a young age. For many foreigners coming to study in Enschede this is not the case. During the introduction week for new students Faculty ITC organises a fun session in the Van Heek Park where students can try a bike in a traffic-free environment. They also invite a Police Officer to explain the traffic rules in the Netherlands. To get an impression please watch this video.
UT would like to stimulate all students to be confident cyclists and use the most sustainable mode of travel. We are curious if there is a demand for some guidance getting to grips with cycling in the Netherlands. In 2021 UT will conduct a mobility survey, so please let us know.
Business travel
As stated in the UT strategy Shaping 2030, for journeys below 800km the train is the preferred mode of travel. We will work to develop a travel map and a decision tree to assist people in making the choice that is most sustainable and that fits their situation. Have a look at the UU Train Zone Map and UU travel check for the time being.
Movements on campus
UT stimulates measures that reduce the number of transport movements on campus.
Coherence through a mobility plan
Being able to use a bike-friendly route influences the pleasure in cycling to work as is the option to use the optional model for buying a bike more cheaply. The bike storage facilities and available car parking spaces influence people’s commuting behaviour.
Therefore, we will develop a mobility plan where the connections of the various elements of mobility are brought together and weak links are identified which inhibit people choosing sustainable mobility options.
Part of the mobility plan is a survey on commuting pattern which we will conduct once there is a stable commuting pattern after Corona.