9 February 2007

Dear Colleagues,

Who would have thought a few years ago that phrases like sustainable development, climate change and carbon footprint would top the headlines and be on the lips of everyone! Certainly it is noticeable that children and young people are much more aware of the environmental debate than in ‘our day’.

The report published last week by the UN International Panel on Climate Change is accepted by governments across the world to mean the debate is now over and we are at the stage of looking for solutions. And it is here that the issue starts to affect us.

Over the past weeks several high street names, notably Marks and Spencer, have been very high profile in committing many millions of pounds to become carbon neutral in future years, or at least to reduce their carbon footprint and thereby respect our enviroment.

Public Transport clearly has a big role to play in delivering more sustainable development and reducing greenhouse gas emissions at national and regional levels. People will be affected at individual level if the cost of cars increases or there are parking / tax surcharges for SUV type vehicles. Both these were in the news last week as potential solutions.

If we continue to improve our networks, respond to the communities we serve and deliver value for money we will benefit from these developments. In addition, the environmental message supports our bids for investment to expand and upgrade services.

But don’t forget what we can do as individuals – at the end of the day turn off lights, equipment, pc’s and machinery. Don’t leave engines idling unnecessarily and avoid wasting power and water. All this adds up, particularly in a company of Translink’s size and it is the right thing to do!

Philip O'Neill

Acting Chief Executive

Public Transport clearly has a big role to play in delivering more sustainable development and reducing greenhouse gas emissions at national and regional levels.