About the TFI Smarter Travel Programme
The TFI Smarter Travel programme is a national, voluntary behaviour change initiative that supports workplaces and third-level institutions in developing and implementing sustainable travel plans. These plans aim to encourage staff, students, and visitors to adopt more sustainable commuting habits.
As part of each organisation’s travel plan, staff and student travel surveys are conducted to gather data on commuting patterns. The resulting survey reports include tailored action plans that guide organisations in promoting and facilitating active and sustainable travel options.
Benefits of Workplace Travel Plans
Implementing a workplace travel plan offers a range of benefits, including:
- Reduced carbon emissions from commuting and business travel
- Lower demand for staff car parking
- Improved site accessibility for employees, visitors, and suppliers
- Compliance with planning permission conditions
- Reduced employer PRSI contributions through schemes like Cycle to Work and TaxSaver
Behaviour Change Campaigns
The programme also runs engaging campaigns to encourage sustainable commuting habits, such as:
- Marchathon – a walking challenge
- Walktober – promoting walking during October
- Ready-Set-Cycle – encouraging cycling for commuting and leisure
These initiatives help participants build long-term active travel habits.
Recognition and Certification
Organisations that demonstrate leadership in promoting sustainable travel can earn the Smarter Travel Mark certification, introduced in 2023. This certification is part of the Government’s Pathfinder Programme, recognising innovation and commitment to sustainable mobility.
Programme Growth and Reach
- In 2024, 35 new organisations joined the programme
- 53 organisations conducted travel surveys
- The programme now includes 282 organisations:
- 251 workplaces
- 31 campuses
- The active reach includes approximately 246,305 staff and 292,523 students
Looking ahead to 2025
In 2025, more organisations across Ireland are expected to be awarded the Smarter Travel Mark, recognising their commitment to reducing single-occupancy car use and associated carbon emissions.
The TFI Smarter Travel programme will continue to support workplaces and campuses in implementing effective travel plans that contribute directly to their climate action goals. With a growing network of engaged partners, the programme looks forward to welcoming new organisations and expanding its impact in the years ahead.
