SCC to encourage the use of greener cars (16th December)

Dr. Andrew Povey, Leader of Surrey County Council, yesterday announced changes to the way that SCC travelling expenses are paid to discourage the use of more highly polluting vehicles.

Under the plans, the detail of which is still to be formalised before their implementation in 2011, staff and councillors would be encouraged to user ‘greener’ cars so as to help reduce Surrey County Council’s impact upon the environment.

Dr. Povey remarked, “I think it is important that as the local authority for Surrey we take the lead in setting an example and demonstrating our commitment to encouraging a more environmentally friendly approach to transport. We recognise that many of our staff need to use cars to work, but I think we should do all that we can to say that if you don’t take any steps to reduce a fairly large part of your carbon footprint you will have to accept the consequences. This will apply equally to Members because it is only fair that we are treated on the same basis.

We are not going to force anyone to buy a new vehicle, but we are making a clear statement of intent. This is yet another sign of our commitment to making Surrey greener”.