FLEET managers have been earmarked by the Government for a pivotal role within its integrated transport strategy. A confidential tender document seen by Fleet NewsNet acknowledges the importance of fleet managers as key influencers in the establishment of green corporate transport plans that cover journeys to work, car parking, greener driving and alternative modes of transport.

'Greener fleet management will be an important 'subset' of many green transport plans, and fleet managers and operators may have a potentially strong influence on the establishment and implementation of broader company transport policy,' says the document. The tender marks the start of the Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions' search for a green transport specialist to devise and implement a 'Greener Fleet Certification Scheme'.

Fleet NewsNet understands that about eight environmental transport gurus have been invited to tender for the contract, with submissions due by Monday, August 23. A decision is expected in early September with the Green Fleet Certification Scheme up and running by February 2000.