FLEET decision-makers can be grouped into four distinct categories when looking at their environmental policies, according to industry research carried out by Avis.

Its ECO Reader Survey 2002 revealed that fleet decision-makers could be classed as either policy sceptics, congestion focused, policy supporters or undecided.

Policy sceptics, accounting for 37% of respondents, give less consideration to the benefits of home working and environmentally-friendly vehicles, and have the lowest opinion of Government efforts to improve transport and the environment so far. They oppose access restrictions for city centres and dismiss car parking charges, congestion charges and carbon-based taxes as ineffective.

By contrast, the congestion focused, accounting for 17% of fleet executives, have given serious consideration to home working, alternative fuels and travel plans, are prepared to use CO2 figures in choosing fleet choice lists, are relatively satisfied with Government transport policy and believe the CO2-based taxation system is fair.

Policy supporters, who account for 22% of those interviewed, mainly consider train journeys and improved cycling facilities as their sustainable travel plan options.

They strongly support using CO2 figures in creating company car choice lists and believe city car clubs are a good idea. They support controls for access to city centres being introduced for all journeys and support the use of a combination of road charging options to reduce congestion.

The undecided, accounting for nearly a quarter of those surveyed, have not considered any sustainable transport options and have yet to be convinced about many key aspects of Government policy.

For copies of the report and information on car clubs, fleet decision-makers should email Avis sales and marketing director Grahame Gallagher at grahame.gallagher@avis.co.uk