Refill and reflect – what can we learn from the current petrol crisis

As we negotiate the difficulties of coming out of Covid19 lockdown and still face the trials and tribulations of Brexit, we have also been hit by the lack of HGV drivers sparking a nationwide petrol crisis – combined with the action of climate control groups causing major disruption to commuters and motorway traffic.

But as we queue for petrol and contemplate the frustration of our journey, bumper to tailgate in the latest traffic jam, perhaps it’s time to reflect on how we might benefit from not relying on our cars quite so much.  An RAC report regarding road traffic forecasts for the future predicts that car traffic will grow between 11 per cent and 43 per cent by 2050, whilst van traffic is forecast to continue growing significantly in all scenarios (between 23 per cent and 108 percent).

In addition, 20% of drivers will still jump in the car to travel less than a mile, while a staggering 63% use their car for a trip of 1-5 miles a Government survey has observed.  With the UK Government’s pledge to achieve CO2 Net Zero emissions by 2050, just imagine how much fitter and healthier we would all be if we walked for at least part of our journey to and from work or school.  Funnily enough, during September and October the number of children walking to school visibly increased, simply because parents had no other option than to turn away from the car and use an alternative.  Even taking a local bus emits a little over half the greenhouse gases of a single occupancy car journey and also helps to remove congestion from the roads.

Of course there are many instances when using a car is the only practical mode of transport and for those continuing to use a car, choosing the most fuel-efficient model available can make a big difference.  In the BBC’s Smart Guide to Climate Change, it was reported that transport emissions are still growing globally because of the growing appetite for SUVs over smaller vehicles, a trend which risks cancelling out the benefits of switching to electric cars. A decade ago SUVs made up 17% of global yearly car sales, but now account for 39%. According to the International Energy Agency, this demand for larger cars was the second largest contributor to the increase in global CO2 emissions between 2010 and 2018.

For our part, our modern enterprise centre (Weatherill House) is situated beside the beautiful Wandle Park with direct access from the tram stop and excellent public transport links in all directions. For those using an electric car, we have 2 electric charging points in our undercover 24/7 parking facility.  There are also bicycle racks available in a secure location and showers for our energetic commuters.

In this era where working from home is a welcome alternative to the usual 9 to 5 in the office, we have seen a new kind of tenant emerge ready to take advantage of our flexible working options.  Some are finding that their house is too full of product to cope and an office (with storage) not only alleviates the situation but gives the opportunity to access a more professional and quiet environment, those taking on kick-starters or apprentices may be in need of a larger space, or businesses requiring several hubs closer to home for their employees and some sole traders who just need a desk or office for a few days a week.

If you’re in need of office space and would like to discuss options with us or arrange a viewing, please contact us on 0203 747 4747.