In a move that promises to both boost the local economy and benefit the environment, Bristol’s biggest bus operator is now accepting the city’s independent currency, the Bristol Pound
Bus operator First announced in September that it would begin accepting Bristol Pounds for trips originating and ending within city limits.
The Bristol Pound was launched in September 2012 to encourage the public to support Bristol businesses, more than 600 of which are now accepting the currency as legal tender.
The decision by First builds awareness of the local economy, and also puts the spotlight squarely on public transport, with some community leaders believing it is helping to reduce dependency on private cars, improve air quality and combat climate change.
The bus company, which operates more than 500 vehicles across the south-west, is also accepting the Bristol Pound as payment for bus passes.
