Cutting car mileage.

KATJA Leyendecker is an inspirational staff member of the Environment Agency who is committed to reducing her carbon footprint, not just because it's in line with the national policy but because it's something she believes in and practices daily.

Over the past two years the Environment Agency has reduced its total business mileage by nearly nine million miles, and staff avoid car use wherever possible, as it's more environmentally damaging than walking, cycling, getting the bus or taking the train.

Since Katja started working for the Environment Agency 16 months ago, she has racked up more than 600 bike miles for business travel. Her business bike mileage averages out at over 1.5 miles for every working day. In contrast, her car mileage has been six miles so far.

"It's all possible. It requires commitment and lifestyle changes but it can be done. Meetings are easy, as usually no heavy luggage is required - I just cycle there or combine train and cycling," explains Katja.

"Planning your journey is important and flexibility and mixing and matching alternative forms of transport is key. Maybe fitness comes into it a little bit, but that's not an excuse... it's a reason for using alternative transport."

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ON YOUR BIKE Katja Leyendecker.