The Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen (THM) was recognized as a "bicycle-friendly employer" during the Energy and Sustainability Day in Friedberg. Sigrid Hubert and Bertram Giebeler from the Hessian state board of the General German Bicycle Club (ADFC) presented the silver award to members of the university's presidium , university sport , and sustainability management team. The award is valid for three years and is intended to encourage the university to strive for the gold award in the future.
“People still have to cycle themselves – but the employer ensures good and comfortable conditions,” Giebeler summarized the requirements for the certificate. However, reality is stricter: In May, the THMcampuses Giessen and Friedberg, for which the certificate applies, underwent an audit. The audit focused primarily on the infrastructure, from parking areas and showers to lockers and repair facilities – THM scored “very good” in this area. The auditor received information on cycling events for employees and students, ranging from cycling action days to sporty bike tours and participation in the city cycling campaign. A review of the mobility aspects within the sustainability strategy was also important. Universities, as both major employers and multipliers, have a doubly significant role in promoting sustainable mobility, Giebeler explained.
Christina Paulencu from university sport gave an overview of cycling-related offers and events, highlighting the easy availability of bicycles – the student unions of THM and JLU, in cooperation with the operator Nextbike, offer more than 360 rental bikes at 17 stations. From a sustainability management perspective, the large catchment area for commuters plays an important role, according to head Juliane Wegner. For local transport, cycling is an excellent alternative. For medium-distance travel, it is the responsibility of the municipality to increase its attractiveness.
The audit also included a consultation and resulted in a list of suggestions for improvement: To achieve a gold certificate in three years, the purchase of company bicycles is recommended, as is the introduction of a bicycle leasing programme. Additional lighting at bicycle parking areas and improved visibility of cycling options, both on the Webseite and on cycle paths, are also suggested.