GOVERNMENT is pressing fleets to cut vehicle emissions. Business generates pollution through company cars, commuting, urban delivery fleets and long distance haulage trips, says the Department of Environment's new report 'The United Kingdom National Air Quality Strategy'. It calls for savings by route planning, mobile communications and load-sharing with other firms.

'Company cars do more than 35% of total car mileage, yet there are cost effective and environmentally beneficial alternatives,' says the report suggesting more rail and taxi journeys, relocation to reduce car use and alternatives to personal fuel subsidies which result in higher personal mileage and distort decisions about transport options.

The report says driver training can cut accidents and reduce poor driving techniques, reduce emissions and improve fuel consumption by up to 25%. It also approves gas powered vehicles. The aim is to cut pollution over the next eight years. Local authorities would empower police, traffic wardens and uniformed environmental officers to fine drivers and owners of polluting vehicles after roadside vehicle emission checks.