Bus operators across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough have come together to celebrate both #CarFreeDay and Catch the Bus Month, highlighting the economic benefits and value of leaving the car behind and getting on board. 

Representatives from Stagecoach East, Dews Coaches, A2B and Whippet joined together with trade association CPT to highlight that if everyone switched just one car journey a month to bus, there would be a billion fewer car journeys and a saving of 2 million tonnes of carbon dioxide per year. 

Figures from Bus Users UK show that a new diesel car with a single occupant can emit more nitrogen oxides than a new bus carrying 50 or more passengers. A fully loaded double decker bus can take 75 cars off the road. 

Managing Director of Stagecoach East, Darren Roe, said: “Going by bus is the affordable, comfortable and environmentally responsible way to beat the traffic and get to work, or to visit our region’s outstanding shops and attractions.  

“This is a great opportunity to discover the benefits of bus travel such as the social perks, the positive impact it can have on mental health by staying connected and reducing isolation, cutting CO2 emissions, and providing more affordable travel in this time of rising living costs.” 

Kelly Nockolds, Route Performance Manager at A2B said: “Travelling by bus is much better for the environment, taking numerous cars off the road and making it better for us all.  

“The social aspect of travelling by bus is also a bonus, enabling people to meet friends and to enjoy their journey.” 

Regional Manager, CPT London, South East and East Midlands, Karen Tiley, added: “It is always heartening to see the different bus companies coming together to support each other, for the benefit of our customers.  

“Your local buses offer exceptional value in getting to work or meeting friends and family, so it is always important that we highlight this fact."