Directors saddle up to show that pedal power is the way forward

With British Olympic cycling heroes Chris Hoy and Victoria Pendleton blazing a trail in Beijing, L&Q’s very own easy riders biked it into work today to show their support for our sustainability strategy.

Chief Executive David Montague and Executive Directors Mike Donaldson and Tom Nicholls left their cars in the garage and braved the morning rush hour on two wheels to find out for themselves how practical it is to be more environmentally-friendly.

David (pictured, far left) said: “It took me about 15 minutes on the bike, which is roughly what it takes me in the car.
“Cycling to work takes a bit more planning than simply jumping in the car, but even if it’s not practical every day I will certainly think about cycling in again.”

All week the trio have also been using special energy meters at home to find out how much energy they and their families use and see if there are things they can do to reduce their consumption.

David added: “My children in particular have really been getting involved and it’s been quite an eye opener to see how even little things, like only half filling the kettle instead of filling it to the top, can save a lot of energy.”

They have also been shopping locally, or buying British produce, and monitoring the amount of waste they produce.

Robin Feeley, L&Q’s Sustainable Development Manager, (pictured, far right) said: “As L&Q grows it is increasingly important that we take sustainability seriously and every member of staff can contribute by making simple lifestyle changes that will help to reduce our environmental impact.

“Obviously it’s not possible for everyone to cycle in to work, but even if you take the bus or train a couple of times a week instead of driving it will be a help.

“There are also little things that people can do around the office and at home – such as switching off computer monitors, not leaving lights on unnecessarily and making sure taps are turned off properly – that all add up.”

Robin added: “It was brilliant to see the Executive Group saddle up this morning and leave the cars at home. My biggest relief though is that none of them turned up in lycra cycling shorts!”

A new sustainability strategy will be going to L&Q’s Executive Board in December which will outline in more detail how staff and L&Q as an organisation can become even more environmentally-friendly.

Have a look at the website www.energysavingtrust.org.uk for more tips and advice on how you can cut back on your energy use.

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