Commuting FAQ's

Typically, the most sustainable transport modes are also the cheapest options. Active commuting (walking, cycling, running) produce no emissions during transit with no associated costs. Public transport and carpooling are cheaper and have less associated emissions when compared to driving a similar distance.

Please see below the cost and emissions comparisons for transport modes from several locations within the Leinster region.

Typically, the most sustainable transport modes are also the cheapest options. Active commuting (walking, cycling, running) produce no emissions during transit with no associated costs. Public transport and carpooling are cheaper and have less associated emissions when compared to driving a similar distance.

Please see below the cost and emissions comparisons for transport modes from several locations within the Leinster region.

The Bike Clinics are held on each of the academic campuses (Glasnevin, St. Patrick's and All Hallows) throughout semester 1 and 2. The exact dates, times and locations of the bike clinics can be found here.

DCU have been advised by DCC that many of the cycle lanes surrounding DCU will be upgraded under the rollout of the BusConnects programme.  However, if you would like to contact DCC regarding public cycle lanes, you can email roadmaintenance@dublincity.ie

Claroread

Interested in utilising the time spent on your commute?

ClaroRead is software is available to all DCU students using their DCU Apps a/c. This software can be a vey useful tool to facilitate reading and studying during your commute to campus.

Claroread is a simple, easy-to-use and flexible software program that helps you to read, write, study, and increases your confidence. You can read any on-screen text out loud and improve your writing in Microsoft Word. ClaroRead Plus and Pro also lets you read aloud scanned paper books and documents with complete clarity.

For more information, please check here.

The locations of the shower facilities available to active commuters can be found here.

There are secured (card access) cycle parking locations at DCU, please find more information here. In order to access any of the secure cycle parking areas, you must first email helpdesk.estates@dcu.ie and request to have your DCU student/staff card activated for access. In this email, please include the following details from your DCU student/staff card:

• student/staff number
• expiry date
• 13 digit card number

There are covered and uncovered cycle racks throughout the campuses. Cycle racks have CCTV surveillance and are monitored by DCU Security.

The Gardai recommend spending at least 10% of the value of your bike on a lock. It's also recommended that you use two good locks of different types and lock both to the frame and the wheels of your bike.

In order to access any of the secure cycle parking areas, you must first email helpdesk.estates@dcu.ie and request to have your DCU student/staff card activated for access. In this email, please include the following details from your DCU student/staff card:

• student/staff number
• expiry date
• 13 digit card number

For more information on the secured (card access) cycle parking locations at DCU, please read here.

The choice to walk or cycle more often can positively contribute to the planet. Below are some of the reasons why it should be encouraged:

Reduced Car Emissions

It is understood that car emissions are one of the predominant causes of greenhouse gases. In Ireland, private car energy use clearly dominates and accounted for over 40% of transport energy use in 2021. Research suggests choosing to walk or cycle a short journey instead of travelling in a car can have significant advantages for the environment over a year. Switching a 4km car trip to college/work with walking or cycling can save 200kg of CO2 each year.

Walking & Cycling Are More Sustainable Than Driving

Walking and cycling reduce the pollution from car emissions and can also contribute to your current expenditure (See FAQ above on costs of commuting) and national future expenditures.  Air pollution from car and trucks cause damage to our heath and to our surroundings, including both buildings and nature. Reducing our transport related emission will mean less work and money will be needed to fix the damages caused.  

Transport Costs

Walking or cycling on your daily commute is low/no cost!  While it costs money to initially purchase a bike, using the bike does not cost and general upkeep/servicing costs are typically minimal and you can get your bike maintained for free at the DCU Cycle clinics. In comparison, owning a car can be financially demanding - see other FAQs above for specific examples. Not only do you have to pay for maintenance, insurance, and tax, but you also have to ensure it stays running throughout the week on fuel. By reducing the shorter journeys completed by a vehicle, you will use less fuel and save more money.

Walking & Cycling Are A More Resourceful Use Of Space

Another incentive about choosing to walk or cycle over the use of a vehicle is that it requires less space. Walking and cycling lead to less congestion. Vehicle parking is another issue of space in terms of car usage.

Creates Happier & Quieter Surroundings

More people walking and cycling in our areas can make them appear and be safer. It motivates people to emulate or copy other peoples behaviour and encourage them to move out of their comfort zone/car seat and try active travel.  The reduced vehicular traffic support safer active commuting traffic and has also been associated with reducing feelings of anxiety in urban areas.  With more people walking/cycling and fewer using cars, noise and air pollution significantly drops.