Free emissions audit tool available from Travelfootprint

Travelfootprint has added a new Fleet Emissions Audit tool to its set of free online emissions calculators to help businesses assess the environmental impact of their vehicle fleet. Users simply input the amount of fuel used over a defined period, and the tool automatically calculates the total lifecycle CO2 emissions.

The Fleet Emissions Audit tool assesses the amount of direct (tailpipe) and indirect (upstream) CO2 emissions by applying known factors to the quantity of fuel consumed. Not only does his approach provide one of the most accurate methods of CO2 assessment, it also relies on data that is readily available to most fleet managers. The fuels included in the tool are: diesel, petrol, LPG and non-renewable electricity.

The Travelfootprint website also features a vehicle emissions calculator which allows users to compare the lifecycle carbon and air pollution impacts for all new and used cars (since 2001) on the UK market; and includes diesel, petrol, hybrid, LPG and electric vehicles. Emissions calculations are based on official data and the CO2 calculations are adjusted to reflect real-world driving.

Non-car emissions can also be assessed using Travelfootprint’s Journey Emissions calculator, which allows users to calculate CO2 and air pollution emissions for real (Google mapped) journeys by foot, bicycle, motorbike, bus, tube, rail and air. This tool enables businesses and individuals to audit their commuting and business travel impacts.

Travelfootprint is funded by Transport for London and the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, and is managed by Camden Council as the lead authority in the Clear Zones Partnership. The Travelfootprint website has been developed on behalf of the London Borough of Camden by Ecolane Transport Consultancy.

According to Dr Ben Lane, Director of Ecolane: "Travelfootprint is the first online emissions calculator to include all travel modes, allowing businesses to audit their transport generated emissions. By providing users with the latest emissions factors, fleet managers and individuals can now accurately compare the environmental impacts of different travel modes, and make informed choices about the vehicles and methods of transport they use, all at the touch of a button. And what is more it’s free."

To access the Travelfootprint tool visit: travelfootprint.org