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The following activities have been agreed as the main activities all Departments should tackle to reduce emissions of CO2:

The Department has, during 2003/4, doubled the provision of cycle racks in one of our main buildings.  We have also reduced the number of car parking spaces available, and plan to continue this programme in the current year.  In addition, the range of vehicles available under the Department's lease car scheme is being reviewed with emphasis on vehicles with low emissions being recommended and vehicles with high emission ratings being withdrawn.

The Department has also reduced the need for official travel by the installation of new video-conferencing suites across the estate.  Over the year there has been an 8.6% increase in the number of video conferences taking place.  We have also added five new facilities to the videoconferencing network, and are planning for further systems to be installed over the coming months.  A new web-based messaging system 'Sametime', is also expected to reduce the need for official travel.

The Department, through its procurement process, encourages its suppliers to use "green" vehicles when engaged on Departmental business.

• More about travel targets (opens new window)