grantedthe Smarter Travel Mark: Silver Accolade to our site
Smarter Travel Mark Program Encourages Sustainable Mobility
The Smarter Travel Mark, a nationwide program coordinated by the National Transport Authority (NTA), is an initiative aiming to reduce single-person car usage by promoting active and sustainable travel. The program offers a structured three-tier certification scheme that recognizes organizations supporting sustainable mobility for their workforce, students, and visitors.
The certification, which applies to the commute and beyond, is designed to encourage sustainable travel practices beyond daily commutes. Organizations can achieve Bronze, Silver, or Gold levels by demonstrating sustainable travel initiatives, promoting active travel modes such as walking and cycling, and supporting alternatives to car use.
As part of the program, the NTA invested €321 million in 2024 to support active travel, with projects including the development and upgrade of 184 kilometers of footpaths and cycleways nationwide. The Safe Routes to School program, linked with the Smarter Travel Mark, delivered 91 treatments (e.g., crossings, footpath improvements) and installed cycle and scooter parking at 822 schools to encourage walking and cycling among students.
The Smarter Travel Mark complements other NTA-led sustainable mobility initiatives such as demand-responsive transport (DRT) pilots and public transport improvements aimed at reducing reliance on private cars and enhancing accessibility. The program's efforts contribute to the NTA's broader vision for reducing car dependency and encouraging greener transport alternatives.
Organizations interested in learning more about the Smarter Travel Mark's commitments to working sustainably can find information on the Sustainable Business section of their website. By achieving certification, these organizations not only reduce their carbon footprint but also contribute to a culture of sustainable mobility.
As the Smarter Travel Mark recognizes organizations that support sustainable mobility, it could be interesting to see this initiative expand its focus to include sustainable business practices and lifestyle choices, like promoting sustainable living in home-and-garden settings. This broader approach could lead to an even more substantial reduction in carbon emissions, fostering a community that values sustainability in all aspects of life. By obtaining certification and showcasing their commitment to sustainability across various sectors, these businesses may inspire others to follow suit, furthering the NTA's long-term goal of encouraging greener transport alternatives and reducing car dependency.
