Cornwall-based Traffic Consultant Tim Jopling has put his money where his mouth is when it comes to sustainability and swapped four wheels for two.

Tim, who works for Tolvaddon-based traffic engineering consultancy Byways and Highways, has said goodbye to his 2.5 litre Ford Mondeo in favour of a more environmentally friendly BMW R850R motorbike to practice what he preaches.

Having worked on many development projects in the South West since he joined Byways and Highways in November 2002, Tim has developed a keen interest in sustainable modes of transport through developing travel plans for a range of clients. As a result, Tim has sold his 2.5L V6 Ford Mondeo and replaced it with a BMW R850R motorcycle with electronic engine management system, catalytic converter, low emissions and 50+ miles per gallon fuel economy. Tim has also fitted the bike with panniers and uses it daily to commute to and from work and also to carry out his numerous site visits. "I have always had an interest in motorbikes but had used them socially rather than as part of my working life.

However, as I have been increasingly involved on sustainable transport policies and travel planning, I felt it was important to practice what I preach so swapped four wheels for two. "Travel by motorbike is not only exhilarating but highly efficient in terms of time and impact on the environment, not to mention how easy it is to find a parking space now. I felt that the benefits of an environmentally friendly motorbike far outweighed those of a car so, in the end it was an easy decision to make," said Tim, who lives in Illogan. Protective clothing is a new addition to Tim's work wardrobe as his approach to fuelling the family car, which now runs on bio fuel - a cleaner alternative to diesel.

According to Byways and Highways Director Graham Fincham sustainable transport issues are becoming increasingly important to the local authorities and developers that it works with across the UK.

"Sustainable transport policies have really grown in emphasis in recent years. Through Tim's expertise on this subject we are being called on increasingly to work with local authorities and developers throughout the UK to support them on this element of their planning.

"Tim really is practicing what he preaches and we applaud his decision," said Graham.

In addition to its work with local authorities and developers, Byways and Highways recently won a prestigious contract with the Highways Agency to provide it with specialist surveying and assessment work for the next five years after winning a place on the organisation's Project