Steff Aquarone MP adopts STL
Steff Aquarone MP has become the first Member of Parliament to formally adopt a Sustainable Travel Leave policy in his parliamentary office, marking an important step forward in political leadership on climate action and fairer workplace practices.
The policy enables staff to take additional paid leave when choosing slower, low-carbon travel options, such as trains, coaches, and ferries, instead of flying. By recognising that sustainable travel can take longer, Sustainable Travel Leave addresses a key barrier to choosing lower-emissions journeys.
Mr Aquarone said,
“Sustainable Travel Leave isn’t about perks; it’s about fairness. If someone chooses to travel in a lower-carbon way, they shouldn’t be penalised by losing more of their holiday. This is a simple, practical way to support climate-responsible choices at work.”
Supporting Climate-Responsible Choices at Work
Aviation is one of the fastest-growing sources of UK carbon emissions. While many people want to reduce their environmental impact, time pressures in the workplace often make flying the default option.
Sustainable Travel Leave addresses this challenge by ensuring that staff are not disadvantaged for making climate-responsible travel choices. It supports lower-carbon travel while promoting fairness, wellbeing, and positive workplace culture.
By adopting this policy, Steff Aquarone MP is demonstrating practical leadership and showing how employers can take meaningful action on climate issues within their own organisations.
Setting a Precedent in Parliament
As employers and public leaders, MPs play a key role in shaping workplace norms. This adoption represents the first formal commitment to Sustainable Travel Leave within Parliament and establishes a clear precedent for other MPs and political offices to follow.
The policy reflects a growing recognition that climate leadership is not limited to national policy, but also includes everyday decisions within workplaces.
Building Momentum for Change
The introduction of Sustainable Travel Leave in a parliamentary office sends a strong signal that lower-carbon travel can be supported through practical, workable policies.
This development contributes to a wider movement among organisations seeking to align their operations with climate goals and social responsibility. As more employers adopt similar approaches, sustainable travel can become a realistic and widely accessible option.
A Call to Other Employers
We welcome Steff Aquarone MP’s commitment and leadership, and we encourage other MPs, political offices, and employers across the UK to follow his example.
Sustainable Travel Leave offers a straightforward way for organisations to reduce their environmental impact while supporting staff to make responsible choices.
If you’re interested in adopting Sustainable Travel Leave at your workplace, please book a call.