Firms can apply for a grant of up to £5,000 to help staff travel to work using public transport, bicycle or even car-sharing.

Kent County Council is offering the money as part of its drive to improve sustainable commuting – cutting carbon and congestion while giving a boost to business.

It said research shows active and/or sustainable travel also reduces sick leave and improves morale in the workplace.

Kent County Council cabinet member for environment and transport said: “Sustainable travel even includes saving a journey to work by working from home or using a video conference instead of traveling to a meeting.

“I urge businesses to get on board with this drive for smarter travel and to register online.”

To apply for a grant, firms have to register at www.kentsmartertravel.co.uk by Wednesday, September 30.