Companies that encourage the use of bicycles among their employees can obtain CFE certification.
The European Union continues to advance towards sustainable mobility and emissions reduction and has decided to support a certification program to recognize companies that promote cycling to work. This distinction was created through the European project Bike2Work , promoted by the European Cyclists' Federation and managed in Spain by Bikefriendly.
The project's objective is to recognize the efforts of companies that promote the use of bicycles and to encourage corporate commitment to the development of more sustainable cities.
The benefits of being a CFE company
Cycling to work benefits employee health, which ultimately has a positive impact on the company's bottom line. In fact, people who cycle to work spend fewer days a year sick than those who always drive.
By promoting cycling, they can also save on infrastructure (one car parking space can fit six or seven bikes) and, at the same time, help improve traffic in their city. All this, while also encouraging punctuality, since cyclists can more easily avoid traffic jams and park closer to work.
Currently, the Cycle Friendly Employer certification is available in fourteen countries, and it has just arrived in Spain. Starting this month, Bikefriendly will be responsible for evaluating the compliance of companies and institutions in Spain and recognizing those that meet the requirements for CFE certification.
The initiative was launched just a few weeks ago and several large companies have already expressed interest in the necessary requirements.
Requirements to be a CFE company
To obtain CFE certification, you must complete the self-assessment test available on the CFE certification website . If you pass, Bikefriendly will conduct a quality control check and award the certification, which is valid for three years . If you do not pass, your company can request support to identify areas for improvement.
All CFE companies must appoint an area coordinator who will serve as the point of contact for mobility issues. Furthermore, company offices must provide secure, high-quality bicycle parking near the entrance.
In addition to meeting the minimum requirements, CFE companies will have to implement other proposed measures, such as promoting employee participation in the annual 'Bike to Work' competition or launching an incentive program. This also includes launching campaigns to encourage cycling , creating a map of safe routes , and providing a bike maintenance area . Furthermore, they will be required to promote training sessions on cycling and mobility.
You can find more information about CFE certification and how to obtain it on the project website.
