Local travel

Transport is responsible for more emissions than any other sector of the UK economy, accounting for 28% of all greenhouse gas emissions in the UK in 2018. Transport is the source of 75% of nitrogen dioxide emissions in Oxford.
Staff and student commuting, operational needs and freight deliveries all contribute to the University’s carbon emissions. Vehicle movements endanger vulnerable road users and create noise pollution and congestion.

Around 60% of University staff live outside the Oxford ring road, often resulting in lengthy commutes. In 2018/19, 75% of staff and 97% of students travelled to work and study by sustainable modes.

Please note

The University supports staff and students with disabilities who need a parking permit and will continue to take the travel needs of people with disabilities into account, including users of wheelchairs, people with visual and mobility impairments and those with assistance dogs. Any measures introduced to manage the demand to travel by car will not restrict access to parking for those with disabilities and caring responsibilities

 

The University’s vehicle fleet is now 11% electric. Freight and post have already been consolidated through the University internal mail service, which delivers more than a million items per year by bike and zero-emission electric vehicle.

The University is committed to helping our staff choose ways of travelling on a day-to-day basis. 

We encourage you to:

For more information visit the University of Oxford Travel website.

Our commitments

  • Support and lobby Oxford City Council, Oxfordshire County Council and central government to implement proposals aimed at reducing congestion and improving air quality, by investing in walking, cycling and public transport infrastructure in Oxford.
  • Reduce the need for staff to travel by supporting remote and agile working.
  • Support sustainable choices of public transport, walking and cycling. 
  • Where possible, reduce commuter parking, prioritising parking for those with disabilities and caring responsibilities, in order to make better provision for cyclists and pedestrians.
  • Develop proposals and work with partners to improve public transport and walking and cycling connectivity between sites used by the University.