Written by Amélie Chanda, Program Manager, pointA
The Smart Commute program is designed to help workplaces of all sizes embrace sustainable transportation options to reduce traffic congestion and to support commuting to/from the office, especially in light of the growing return-to-office mandates. One of the key features of the program is its three annual campaigns, which focus on raising awareness, increasing employee engagement, and encouraging the move away from single occupancy vehicle use. The three annual campaigns connect employees with the larger Smart Commute network of workplaces by competing with one another to win prizes, participating in webinars and events, and learning more about how to get more of their workplace program.
Most Smart Commute workplaces will benefit from having at least one in-person outreach, which is a great way for our team to connect directly with your employees to hear their commuting stories and questions and to provide them with information, support, and incentives to try alternative modes of commuting.
Each campaign is designed to target specific modes of commuting. They include:
Winter Commute Month (February)
Winter commuting can be challenging, but with some support, it’s absolutely possible to maintain sustainable commuting habits year-round. During the month of February, Smart Commuter offers a Winter Commute Month campaign which provides resources, tips, and incentives to encourage public transit use, carpooling, cycling, and walking during the colder season. Some Smart Commute workplaces even do a ‘coldest day of the year’ bike ride and there’s often a strong focus on carpooling.
During Winter Commute month, we lead a logging contest for sustainable commutes, host a webinar series and do outreach events at our client’s workplaces.
Bike Month (June)
As the weather warms up, Bike Month encourages commuters to shift from using their cars to get to work and promotes cycling as a fun, healthy and sustainable mode of transportation.
Bike Month is celebrated widely and Smart Commute workplaces are part of the festivities. Throughout June, we offer challenges, workshops, safety demonstrations and guided rides to help new and seasoned cyclists feel confident on the road. During the month of June, we also participate in Bike to Work Day which is always a very fun event to be a part of. We’ve also brought bike mechanics to workplaces to prepare bikes for the riding season.
Read more about our Bike Month events and outreaches from previous years here.
Smart Commute Month (September)
September often marks the start of a new commuting season after the summer holidays, making it the perfect time to explore sustainable commuting options. Smart Commute Month raises awareness about alternatives to driving alone and encourages employees to try carpooling, transit, cycling, or walking. During that month, we gather data through a survey about commuting habits, host a webinar series and participate in various outreaches.
Read more about Smart Commute Month here.
Why campaigns help employers
- Helps employees maintain sustainable commuting habits year-round, reducing the demand for parking spaces.
- Supports employee well-being by encouraging active and stress-free commuting options.
- Demonstrates corporate leadership in sustainability and climate action
.
- Strengthens workplace culture through fun commuting challenges.
- Reduces the negative effects of traffic congestion.
Webinars and Events
In addition to our major campaigns, we can also host Smart Commute webinars and events throughout the year for your organization based on what you’re celebrating (e.g., Earth Week) or during employee engagement events. Events and webinars cover different topics, from how to start carpooling to understanding employer subsidies for sustainable commuting.
Value for Employers:
- Provides continuous learning opportunities for leadership teams and employees alike.
- Keeps sustainability initiatives top-of-mind all year long.
- Encourages networking and engagement among employees with shared interests.
Making a Lasting Impact
Smart Commute’s campaigns and events do more than just raise awareness, they drive real change. They help build healthy habits by offering regular touchpoints, calls to action, and prizes, as well as in-person opportunities to speak with our team. By participating, workplaces can reduce their environmental footprint, improve employee well-being, and contribute to a more sustainable community. If your organization isn’t yet taking part, now is the perfect time to get involved!
