Unlocking public sector potential in Belgium
Fietsersbond Belgium, CFE National Coordinator in Belgium, has achieved some landmark certifications earlier this year. The Federal government has made significant strides in sustainable mobility, with three federal agencies, Fedris, BOSA, and BELSPO, receiving the CFE Silver Level Certification. This recognition highlights the importance of creating a supportive environment for cycling in the heart of Brussels and it showcases how cycle-friendly policies within government administration are feasible and successful.
The three agencies have worked widely to implement measures that make cycling to work a practical and appealing option for their employees. Secure bicycle sheds, changing rooms, and showers have been integrated into the workplace. A notable sign of the changing culture and strong commitment towards sustainable mobility was highlighted by Eddy Vaes, CFE National Coordinator for Belgium at Fietsersbond, saying “It is striking that even car parks were sacrificed for additional bicycle facilities”. These agencies have worked beyond just infrastructure. They worked with Brussels Environment (Leefmilieu Brussel) and the Brussel Region’s Multimodal Access Plan to provide employees with clear information on the best cycling routes and public transport options available, making sustainable commuting easier and more accessible.
The size, extensiveness, and resources of government agencies and institutions make them an ideal pioneer for shifting commuting habits towards sustainable mobility. The work implemented by these three agencies stands as an inspiring example of this.
Private Sector Adoption: Norway and Germany
The private sector is also embracing the CFE Certification. The Norwegian Cyclists’ Association, CFE National Coordinator for Norway, has recently awarded two companies, Glencore Nikkelverk and mnemonic, the CFE Silver Level Certification, a result of their commitment to creating a cycling-friendly workplace. Glencore Nikkelverk, a major player in the production of refined nickel, copper, and cobalt, has made cycling a more appealing option for its employees. Similarly, mnemonic, a cybersecurity firm based in Oslo, has had its office re-certified for another three years. For Jon Finngard Moe, manager at mnemonic, the CFE Certification ”helps structure our efforts and makes it easier to implement measures that truly make a difference”. Mnemonic prides itself on being recognised “as an active and attractive workplace where it’s easy to choose environmentally friendly commuting”.
The goal for Jon Finngard Moe is to achieve a Gold Level, the top certification, next time the certification is awarded.
In Germany, the German Cyclists Association (AFDC), the CFE National Coordinator in Germany, continues to broaden the reach of an already huge network of hundreds of certified employers in the country. Schindler, a manufacturing company, the Schleswig-Holstein Tourism Agency, and the Essen Chamber of Commerce were awarded CFE Silver Level Certifications, highlighting how cycle-friendly measures can be beneficial for all kinds of firms and employers across sectors.
Chamber of Industry and Commerce Managing Director Kerstin Groß said “we want to make cycling as attractive and convenient as possible”. The CFE Certification considers all measures that support making cycling attractive and convenient. Infrastructure measures, company policies, and involvement in cycling initiatives are needed to show how a deep and sustained commitment to active and sustainable mobility.
This momentum highlights the growing importance of making active mobility an integral part of workplace culture, with numerous organisations being recognised for their efforts in promoting cycling as a viable and attractive mode of transportation through CFE Certification. The growing numbers of employers involved show how cycling-friendly policies are not just a trend but a sustainable long-term strategy. Whether it’s federal agencies in Brussels committing to greener mobility, or private companies in Norway like Glencore and mnemonic taking steps to improve their workplace infrastructure, the message is clear: cycling to work is not just an environmentally responsible choice but a healthier and more efficient one.