100 percent milestone for ‘The Green Journey’
In many ways, the public transport system and Nobina have led the way in the green transition to renewable fuels and electrification for a zero-emissions public transport system. But efforts to reduce our energy consumption for every journey and every kilometre through green and economical driving are equally important. Our concept for this is The Green Journey (DGR in Swedish), where we recently achieved a milestone when one of our depots in Sweden became the first to reach 100 percent ‘green’ drivers and kilometres.
More than 80 percent of all Nobina’s vehicles now run on fossil-free fuels or electricity – 100 percent in some markets. But despite this major and positive shift, we also need to adapt and minimise our actual consumption to further reduce emissions and use society’s resources more efficiently. That is why Nobina has been working for many years with The Green Journey, comprising training, coaching and support combined with technology, data collection and feedback.
First depot to achieve 100 percent ‘green’ drivers
The first depot to achieve 100 percent ‘green’ drivers is Kallhäll Traffic Area outside Stockholm. The team leader for the depot, Pia Knutsdotter, talks about the way there, which is about being clear with expectations, support and motivation.
“It’s vital that everyone understands why we should drive green, that it’s about our children’s future, and our traveller promise that everyone chooses to travel sustainably with us. We’ve also made sure that every driver has the right conditions, both individually with a coach and out on their route with tips and advice.
When it comes to motivation, every month the depot presents how each employee team is doing on the screens, and also selects one green driver per team who receives a diploma and movie tickets.
“What everyone now understands is that they don’t lose time by driving green. They arrive on time without stress, regardless of the route and traffic conditions. Now that we have achieved 100 percent, we will continue working to be green on The Green Journey, as well as on My Speed and in relation to our other targets,” says Pia Knutsdotter.
The total target for the year has been met
The rapid development is evident in all of our traffic areas across the Nordic region: 15 of 31 traffic areas have achieved 90 percent green drivers – a major step forward compared with four traffic areas in August. This has also enabled Nobina to achieve the target of 76 percent green drivers for the full-year. The sustained investment in The Green Journey demonstrates what we can achieve when we work together with focus and determination – and how even small details in our dayto-day work can make a big difference.
Increased safety and comfort as a bonus
In addition to the fact that all of our green drivers are minimising emissions and environmental impact, The Green Journey offers more positive effects. Because the drive is smooth without any abrupt stops or starts, the journey is as comfortable as possible for the travellers.
It goes without saying that a gentle and green style of driving also contributes to safer travel, due to a more even speed and better planning. The Green Journey is therefore an investment in all aspects of sustainability – environmental, financial and social.