“Mechanics' means of transport play a major role in making the organization more sustainable”

Sustainability is a topic that is high on the agenda. Also with Guidion. We spoke to Eveline Hendriks, who, in addition to her job as business controller, is involved in making the organization more sustainable. What goals have been achieved and what are the plans for the coming year? Eveline tells us!

When you look back on the past year, what are you most proud of?

“That the mechanics we work with are increasingly taking the e-bike. Together with VodafoneZiggo and other parties, more than 10,000 visits were made on the e-bike. A development that we are only going to stimulate even more. After all, exchanging the car or bus for an electric means of transport really contributes to reducing CO2 emissions.”

Why are you as Guidion so committed to this?

“Because we work with telecom and central heating engineers who carry out installation work throughout the Netherlands. So also in the cities. From 2025, at least thirty cities are expected to establish a zero emission zone. In those cities, you will then no longer be able to drive a vehicle that emits CO2. That's why we've already started promoting e-bikes and other electric vehicles. It is very nice to see that mechanics themselves are also enthusiastic about this. For example, read Youssef's story. He swapped his bus for an electric bike and lost more than 20 kg, so an e-bike not only reduces CO2, but also a healthier lifestyle. Win-win!”

So we're going to see more e-bikes on the street. How does Guidion deal with sustainability at the office?

“I think that communication and awareness about this topic is the most important thing. I speak to a lot of people who value sustainability but are not sure where to start. That's why Team Green, the sustainability team at Guidion, addresses a “green” topic every month during the Daily. For example, sustainability remains a recurring theme. The team also organises a Guidion University every so often. An evening where an inspiring guest and pressing questions about sustainability come together. This is how we keep the subject under the spotlight in an accessible way.”

In addition to communication, are there also practical sustainability measures?

“Yes, absolutely! For example, we encourage taking bicycles to the office. This is because cyclists receive €0.30 (!) per kilometer of travel allowance. People who come by car receive the legal €0.21 per kilometer. In addition, we offset our emissions with certificates from the Fair Climate Fund. The compensation amount is then donated to households in India who can thus cook cleaner on biogas. Through all these measures, we are making the world a little better.”

What are the goals for 2023?

“To get even more technicians on the road in a more sustainable way. That is why we have started a pilot in which we try out all kinds of electric means of transport. From mini electric city cars to electric work buses. The mechanics try everything out! Ultimately, we hope to find the most ideal means of transport and then emit as little CO2 as possible. We are looking forward to it!”