Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, famously known as the Brecon Beacons, is at the forefront of introducing eco-friendly travel options in the Welsh outdoors by integrating 16 electric vehicle (EV) charge-points. This effort is part of a collaborative initiative known as Recharge in Nature, backed financially by BMW UK in partnership with UK National Parks. This collaboration aims to merge the promotion of clean transportation with conservation and community enhancement endeavors.
New Charging Infrastructure
The network of new EV charge-points, already operational, is split between two sites: the National Park’s Visitor Centre in Libanus and Craig-y-Nos Country Park. This infrastructure ensures that EV drivers can conveniently recharge their vehicles while taking in the breathtaking scenery – from the towering mountains to the starry night skies that Bannau Brycheiniog offers.
Facilitating a Greener Visit
Connected to a larger vision, the Recharge in Nature initiative places a spotlight on fostering sustainable tourism and local commuting across all 15 UK National Parks. Close on the heels of this development, Yorkshire’s National Parks also celebrated the installation of 18 new charge-points thanks to the same initiative, fortifying the UK’s commitment to an extensive EV charging network.
An Expert’s Initiative
Guiding the charge at Bannau Brycheiniog, Kevin Booker, IT Systems and Fleet Manager for the National Park, is recognized for his impressive achievements in EV efficiency, holding the title for four Guinness World Records in the domain. With over 4 million annual visitors, predominantly arriving by car, Booker underscores the importance of supporting emissions-free travel to safeguard the park’s natural splendour.
BMW UK’s Vision for a Sustainable Future
Graham Biggs, from BMW UK’s Corporate Communications, celebrates the expansion of the EV charging facilities. The addition of this infrastructure at Bannau Brycheiniog aligns with BMW’s broader objective to drastically reduce vehicle CO2 emissions and join the mission to achieve climate neutrality following the Paris Climate Agreement guidelines.
Continued Progress Through Partnerships
Catherine Mealing-Jones, CEO of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park and member of the National Parks Partnerships Board, highlights the significance of connections with businesses like BMW in propelling National Parks towards a more sustainable future. This fruitful partnership reinforces the ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship throughout the UK’s National Parks, drawing them closer to their sustainability goals.
