Staff challenge to Royal Mail on 10:10

[TrueBlueTerrier]

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As the biggest union in the postal sector, we welcome Royal Mail's decision to join the 10:10 campaign (Red letter day as Royal Mail joins 10:10 campaign). Royal Mail is a major employer and has one of the biggest transport fleets in Europe, so the company must address its carbon output for the benefit of employees, future budgets and customer expectations. However, we're concerned that Royal Mail may struggle to meet these targets next year, as it plans to bring in 24,000 new vehicles, in many cases replacing bicycles or walking deliveries.

While the postal dispute continues, employees' morale will need to be boosted. We hope that Royal Mail will support our Defra-funded campaign, Climate Solidarity, aimed at changing the behaviour of our members at work and at home. We are committed to playing our part in environmental issues because our members will be the ones facing higher prices for food, fuel and water, and the disruption of adaptation measures.

Tackling climate change is a crucial challenge for all UK workers and their families. Companies and employers must actively engage with unions and staff to bring about that positive change.

Tony Kearns

Senior deputy general secretary, CWU

• I would have been more convinced by Royal Mail's commitment to reducing its carbon emissions had it not stopped moving the post by rail six years ago. The decision graphically demonstrates that, in a capitalist economy, short-term financial gain inevitably trumps long-term environmental benefit. It also makes Royal Mail's green credentials little more than hot air.

Bert Schouwenburg

London

[not me]

oh the irony.onthe very day changes mean i have to move the van more on delivery