A new public transport charter

Better on Board

The Better on Board Charter is a new initiative designed to drive a modal shift in transportation across Northern Ireland. The goal is to encourage more people to choose public transport, reducing congestion, improving air quality, and creating a more sustainable future for everyone.

The Better on Board Charter has been launched with two initial Chapters - Belfast and Derry~Londonderry - where the need is most urgent, and where the potential for positive impact is greatest. Both cities are grappling with severe traffic congestion, which affects quality of life, mobility, and the environment. As population growth and increased car ownership put further strain on these urban areas, the opportunity to shift towards sustainable, public transport solutions is clearer than ever.

Partners signed up to the Charters collectively represent more than 100,000 people across Northern Ireland. Those supporting the initiatives across Belfast and Derry~Londonderry include Alchemy, All State, Belfast Chamber, Farrans, FinTru, GRAHAM, IoD NI, KPMG, Linen Quarter BID, McLaughlin & Harvey, NI Chamber, North West regional College, PwC UK, Queen's University Belfast, Ulster University, Utility Regulator and Visit Derry.

Better on Board: Belfast

Read the Belfast Charter

A North West edition of the Better on Board Charter is due to be launched soon.

The Charter is a call to action, encouraging stakeholders from all sectors to join forces in endorsing and working toward a more sustainable transportation system. Public and private partners are being asked to pledge their support to help increase the use of public transport, reduce car dependency, and achieve Norther Ireland's climate goals.

A photo of Joe Kennedy III
A graphic showing the logo of the Better on Board logo

US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland, Joe Kennedy III launches ‘Better on Board’ Charter at Belfast Grand Central Station to help Drive Modal Shift.

As a key player in this initiative, Translink has set ambitious goals to become climate positive by 2050. The company already facilitates almost 80 million passenger journeys each year and plays a central role in driving Northern Ireland's transition to a more sustainable future. Translink's vision is not only to reduce emissions but to improve the overall quality of life for all residents and visitors.

Case Studies

Ulster University

Ulster University is a leading educational institution committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The university's Belfast campus, designed as a car-free zone, has significantly reduced reliance on private vehicles and promoted sustainable transport options.

Over 50% of staff and students at the Belfast campus now choose to commute via bus, coach, or rail, thanks to enhanced public transport access facilitated by partnerships with Translink. This remarkable shift towards sustainable transportation has reduced congestion, improved air quality, and contributed to a greener Belfast.

By embracing public transport and promoting low-emission travel options, Ulster University is leading by example and inspiring a more sustainable future. The university's commitment to sustainability is evident in its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and create a healthier, more environmentally friendly campus.

This initiative aligns with the University's broader mission to deliver sustainable futures for all. By encouraging staff and students to make sustainable transportation choices, Ulster University is making a significant positive impact on the environment and the community.

KPMG in Ireland

KPMG, a leading professional services firm with over 4000 employees across the island of Ireland, has emerged as a champion of sustainable travel.

The firm's Dublin office has set a remarkable benchmark, with 89% of staff opting for public transport or walking to work. This significant shift towards sustainable commuting underscores KPMG's proactive approach to reducing its carbon footprint. By signing the Better on Board Charter, KPMG reinforces its commitment to environmentally responsible practices. This initiative aligns seamlessly with the company's broader Science-Based Targets, which aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across all scopes of its operations.

KPMG's all-island strategy for sustainable travel highlights its dedication to promoting eco-friendly practices across its entire business. By encouraging the use of public transport for both local and cross-border travel, the firm is contributing to a more sustainable future. The success achieved in Dublin can serve as a model for KPMG's Belfast branch. By sharing best practices and implementing similar initiatives, the Belfast office can significantly reduce its environmental impact and foster a more sustainable workplace culture.

Russell Smyth, Partner, Head of Sustainable Futures at KPMG in Ireland, emphasised the company's commitment: "KPMG is delighted to sign up to the Better on Board Charter, which fully aligns with our commitment to reduce our impact on the environment as communicated through our Science-Based Targets across Scopes 1, 2 and 3. As a fully integrated all-island business, we will continue to promote the use of public transport for our staff’s local and cross-border travel requirements."

KPMG's success in promoting sustainable travel serves as an inspiration for other organisations, demonstrating that significant environmental impact can be achieved through targeted initiatives and a strong commitment to sustainability.