The Royal Parks is the first organisation to gain accreditation from the Energy Saving Trust (EST) Motorvate scheme.

The Parks achieved a silver award by improving the efficiency of its fleet and reduced carbon dioxide emissions by 14%.

The Parks had initially set a target to reduce its CO2 emissions by just 5%, which would have gained a bronze award.

However, following advice from the EST, The Royal Parks took steps such as extending its range of lower emitting vehicles, which now include diesel, liquefied petroleum gas and electric-powered vans and cars.

Pool bikes have also been introduced and staff travelling to meetings away from the parks are encouraged to use public transport or car share which has reduced overall business mileage.

The Royal Parks has also introduced a driver education programme to train drivers in eco-driving techniques.

“With three million company cars on Britain’s roads emitting an estimated 17 million tonnes of CO2 every year – that’s 25% of total car emissions for the UK – the pressure is on businesses to shape up their fleets like never before,” said Philip Sellwood, EST chief executive

“My congratulations go to The Royal Parks for not only gaining the first award under the new Motorvate programme, but doing so at such a high level.”

David Jordan, fleet manager for The Royal Parks said: "It is our responsibility to conserve the royal parks for future generations so it is imperative that our vehicle fleet is as green as possible."

There are currently 20 organisations in the process of gaining accreditation under Motorvate, and other businesses or organisations wishing to put themselves forward should visit www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/fleet