Travel and Transport

We will...

Reform policy and standards governing travel and transport 

We will update travel and transport policies to make sustainable choices the expected norm for business and commuting journeys. Clear principles will guide when and how business travel happens, and policies will be aligned to support these standards. For UK and short European journeys, rail will be the preferred option. 

On campus, limited parking spaces will be reserved for essential users. 

Day-to-day, staff will see clearer guidance on when, where and how low-carbon travel options should be used. Reliable data, leadership support and collaboration between departments will make sure these changes are fair and consistent.  

Over time, this will reduce emissions, optimise our use of outside space on campus and build fairer, more sustainable travel practices.  

Develop infrastructure and services to embed low-carbon travel and transport 

To support changes in policy, we will work with partners to build on existing infrastructure and services and aim to make sustainable travel the easiest choice. 

The University will continue to invest in digital solutions to help reduce travel and support staff and students in switching to low carbon options for day-to-day commuting and business journeys. 

We will also roll out sustainable commuting plans for all campuses and work with local councils to improve local transport connections.

Day-to-day, staff and students will notice simpler booking processes, better infrastructure for walking and cycling, more electric vehicles, and easier remote working and learning with improved digital tools. 

Support staff and students to make low-carbon travel choices 

Alongside policy updates and infrastructure improvements, the University will provide practical support and incentives to help drive more sustainable choices for commuting and business trips, and for student travel for placements and during vacations. 

Staff will have access to travel benefits like EV and cycle salary sacrifice schemes, discounts for public transport and free cycle training. 

We will also develop the offer for students who stay in Bristol during reading weeks or holidays with more local activities, such as events, homestays, and camps. 

Building on sector learnings, we will also look at introducing a business flight levy to fund low-carbon alternatives. 

These changes will need executive leadership, collaboration across departments, strong student engagement, and reliable data to make sure they are fair and affordable.  

This will improve wellbeing, make learning more flexible and create a culture where low-carbon travel is the norm—helping reduce emissions while improving staff retention and student experience.