Cork City Council was recently awarded the Smarter Travel Mark (Silver Level) from the National Transport Authority and becomes the first local authority in Ireland to receive the mark.

The Smarter Travel Mark initiative, first announced by Minister Eamon Ryan in May 2023, is a certification that recognises and celebrates organisations that support active and sustainable travel and a reduction in single-person car usage amongst their staff. Any size employer from the private or public sectors can apply for the Smarter Travel Mark.

Cork City Council has implemented several initiatives to help with the change to active and sustainable travel such as the introduction of an electric car fleet, provision of changing facilities, walking lunches, the use of regular, electric and cargo bikes as well as providing additional bike parking spaces. Over half the staff now use sustainable and active travel as a method of travelling to and from work.

Ann Doherty, Chief Executive of Cork City Council, said “Achieving the Smarter Travel Mark demonstrates that the council prioritises the importance and value of sustainable travel initiatives and the associated environmental benefits. We look forward to implementing further Smarter Travel initiatives to support staff in choosing environmentally friendly transport options.”

Anne Graham, Chief Executive Officer at the National Transport Authority said: “The Smarter Travel Mark is a recognition of employer-led sustainable travel initiatives which are essential to reducing the impact of our collective dependence on the car as a mode of travel. Reducing carbon emissions and alleviating traffic congestion is a priority. I would encourage all employers to be part of the Smarter Travel Mark initiative.”