UAB employees who utilize CommuteSmart helped make UAB number one in reducing vehicle miles out of 530 companies participating in Jefferson County and Shelby County.
CommuteSmart offerings include ride matching, carpool, walking, biking, teleworking and vanpool services. UAB has partnered with this program since 2007.
The 1,177 UAB employees registered with CommuteSmart reduced a total of 1,391,395 vehicle miles between Oct. 1, 2011, and Sept. 30, 2012. This equates to saving 54,834 gallons of fuel, as well as $195,208 in fuel savings, according to CommuteSmart. Commuters also saved on other costs like vehicle maintenance – this helped them altogether save an estimated $823,558.
Using the program does not only mean fuel and cost savings; CommuteSmart said UAB employees’ participation has taken single-occupied vehicles off the road and reduced traffic congestion. This contributed to Birmingham reaching “attainment” status with the six primary air quality standards for the first time in 30 years.
“Making smart lifestyle choices is a key focus of our employee wellness program,” said Alesia Jones, chief officer of UAB Human Resources. “Like making a conscious decision to eat better or exercise more, the decision to take CommuteSmart is another way to make a positive impact on our environment.”
“Using CommuteSmart fits into the overall goals of UAB,” explained André Davis, director of UAB Parking and Transportation. “We try to be a green campus by practicing sustainability and efficiency as much as possible, and this helps to support that initiative.”
Davis said he is encouraged to see so many employees participating, and he would like to see the amount grow in the future.
