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Idle Free Workplaces

Image - Better Environmentally Sound Transportation (BEST) Logo

Better Environmentally Sound Transportation (BEST) is a charitable organization specializing in sustainable transportation. Their primary goal is to make communities healthier places to live by promoting: a) sustainable transportation and land-use planning, and b) pedestrian, cycling and transit-oriented neighbourhoods.

What are they doing?

The Idle Free Workplaces project will research and educate business on the benefits of implementing an Idle Free fleet policy. For example, the cost of idling one car for one minute will be extrapolated to the fleet size to calculate the savings that can be accrued in one idle-free year. Existing research will be converted into appropriate and targeted communications materials aimed at fleet managers within workplaces and their employees. A package of education, presentation and communication tools will be provided to employers. This project will also influence employees in their personal travel habits.

As well, the project will educate the general public through a sticker recognition campaign that identifies companies who are helping change attitudes towards sustainable transportation by becoming idle free.

What did the project accomplish?

The Idle Free Workplace campaign had two major components. The workplace component focused on major regional employers with significant vehicle fleets and used on-site presentations, information sessions and pre and post project telephone surveys. The campaign's second component focused on the general public and included the distribution of information to community members at a series of 'Idle Free Ambassador' events throughout Greater Vancouver at ferry terminals, selected high schools and other transportation hubs. Notable results include:

  • 30 presentations to companies, municipalities, and post-secondary institutions in Greater Vancouver
  • 16,000+ fact cards distributed
  • 16,000+ decals distributed
  • TV and radio media spots reaching over one million residents within Greater Vancouver through paid public service announcements on 12 radio stations
  • 406 on-line employee surveys completed
  • 1,000 hits per month on project website
  • Long-term partners include City of Vancouver - Cool Vancouver Task Force, Capilano College and BC Ferries

Where can you find more information?

Better Environmentally Sound Transportation



Date modified:
2010-02-03