Be active on the school run
As children are back to school, Buckinghamshire Council is asking everyone to think about ways they can make the school run more sustainable, improving health, wellbeing and safety while also bringing positive benefits to the environment.
From using an alternative to the car for drop offs and pick-ups, to not blocking roads and turning your engine off while waiting, we can all make a few simple changes that can make a big difference.
One of the best ways to make your journey to school more sustainable is to choose an alternative to the car. Walking or wheeling instead of driving is better for your health. It also means you don’t need to worry about finding a parking space.
Those who need to drive are being reminded not to park too close to school, blocking gates, driveways or access for those on foot or in emergency vehicles. Motorists are also asked to be mindful of school crossing patrollers who will be stepping into the road regularly to help families cross safely.
When picking up at the end of the day, drivers are also asked not to leave engines running when sitting in the car to avoid emitting potentially harmful car fumes.
Steven Broadbent, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Transport explained: “Jumping in the car isn’t always the best option when it comes to the school run. Children and parents and carers benefit much more by walking or wheeling. Not only does this have health benefits for the whole family, but it also decreases traffic congestion around schools and helps to improve air quality which is beneficial for everyone.”
Steven added: “Even if you have no other option but to drive, there are still things we can do to make a difference. Why not consider, if conditions allow, parking a bit further away and walking the last part of your route? Even this small change will have a positive impact in multiple ways, and we would encourage everyone to think about what they can do to make their school run more sustainable.”
The council’s Sustainable Transport Team works with schools across the county to help them to deliver effective School Travel Plans to promote and encourage active, safe and sustainable travel for school journeys. Schools are encouraged to sign up for initiatives such as Bikeability Cycle Training and the Council’s own Footsteps Child Road Safety and Awareness programme and Parents' Parking Programme.
This could lead to a nationally recognised award from the Modeshift STARS accreditation programme, which recognises and rewards schools and other organisations that have shown excellence in sustainable and active travel. Currently 70 Buckinghamshire schools and 1 college have a Modeshift STARS accreditation with more joining the initiative every year. Accreditation ranges from the starter level Approved (Green) award up to an Outstanding (Platinum) award. Buckinghamshire had the second highest percentage of accredited schools in 'Large' local authorities with over 100 schools, recently Buckinghamshire College Group in Aylesbury recently became the first college in the county to receive accreditation.
For more information on sustainable school travel visit the school travel planning website where you can also find out more about the Buckinghamshire Climate Change and Air Quality Strategy.