Letter: Alternatives to cars
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: I noted with considerable disappointment the announcement of the Government's transport policy (reports, 2 December). It's not a question of building roads or not building roads: modern technology has provided a "third way" which could easily take one in 10 cars off the roads.
Every year, about 10 million business meetings take place face to face. Many of these involve long car journeys. The "third way" solution is to increase the use of audio-conferencing and video-conferencing - groups of people meeting together electronically, using the telephone or standard video equipment - to replace just some of these face-to-face meetings. For the cost of one medium-sized car, a company can install video equipment at five or six locations around the country.
The Government needs to act now and offer education and incentives to business. The cost would be insignificant compared with the budget needed to expand and maintain road infrastructure - and it won't upset the motorist.
As the roads become more impossible, the teleconferencing industry is expanding at over 50 per cent a year. Teleconferencing leads to quicker decision-making, less stress and a dramatic increase in personal productivity. Businesses operate more efficiently, and at a faster, more competitive pace. It all seems so obvious.
ALAN GROVES
Harrow, Middlesex
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments