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On 15 March 2022, the United Nations General Assembly had adopted a resolution to integrate mainstream bicycling into public transportation systems for sustainable development. This resolution highlighted the bicycle as a tool for sustainable transportation, promoting sustainable consumption and production, and positively impacting the climate.
Acknowledging the bicycle’s uniqueness, longevity, and versatility over two centuries, the General Assembly had declared 3 June as World Bicycle Day. This decision emphasized the bicycle as an affordable, reliable, clean, and environmentally fit means of transportation that promotes environmental stewardship and health.
2024’s World Bicycle Day theme highlights the advantages of cycling— Promoting Health, Equity, and Sustainability through Cycling. Bicycles contribute to cleaner air, reduced congestion, and improved access to vulnerable populations’ education, healthcare, and social services. A sustainable transport system that fosters economic growth, reduces inequalities and combats climate change is essential for achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
Riding a bike offers numerous personal, environmental, economic, and social benefits, making it an excellent choice for individuals and communities.
Environmental Benefits
Promoting cycling as a means of transportation aligns with crucial objectives for sustainable development, such as minimizing fossil fuel usage and fostering pollution-free travel, addressing environmental concerns by reducing carbon emissions. Furthermore, shifting towards cycling reduces reliance on car infrastructure and lessens the environmental impact associated with automobile disposal. This transition also aids in conserving roadway and residential space, opening up opportunities for integrating more green areas within urban environments. These green spaces play a vital role in improving air quality and offering recreational opportunities for residents, contributing to a healthier and more vibrant urban landscape overall.
Transport Benefits
Cycling is an ideal mode of transportation for short distances, reducing the reliance on private vehicles for short trips. Bikes cause less road damage and help alleviate congestion. Additionally, bike paths improve accessibility to public transport, reducing congestion around schools and hospitals.
Economic Benefits
The cost of owning and maintaining a bicycle is minimal compared to a car’s. Commuting by bike to work or educational institutions can significantly reduce annual transportation expenses, and cyclists benefit from the convenience of mostly free and easily accessible bike parking.
Personal Benefits
Cycling brings a sense of enjoyment and adventure, reminiscent of the freedom experienced in childhood. It also significantly benefits mental health by reducing stress and anxiety, increasing happiness, lowering the risk of depression, enhancing sleep quality, and boosting creativity and productivity. Additionally, cycling is a convenient and efficient mode of transportation, offering predictable travel times, direct door-to-door service, and often being faster than driving for short distances.
Health Benefits
Health professionals recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity daily. Cycling is a fun way to meet this requirement, incorporating exercise into daily routines like commuting.
Social and Community Benefits
Cycling provides an affordable and independent travel option for individuals with limited car access, such as low-income earners, the unemployed, seniors, and youth. It enhances mobility for various population groups and promotes social interaction. Increased cycling results in fewer cars on the road, creating a safer environment and encouraging children to cycle. It also benefits local businesses, as cyclists and pedestrians are more likely to patronize them. Thus, cycling promotes social interaction and strengthens community connections.
Cycling in India
According to a global survey in 2022, India leads globally in the frequency of bicycle usage, with at least 2 in 3 urban Indians (67%) riding a bicycle at least once a week, the highest rate worldwide. This is followed closely by China (66%) and the Netherlands (65%). The survey also showed that 9 in 10 urban Indians believe that cycling helps reduce carbon emissions, highlighting a widespread understanding of its environmental benefits. The survey also revealed that in India, at least 21% of urban residents consider the bicycle as their primary mode of transportation for short distances of 2 kilometres.
World Bicycle Day celebrates the extensive benefits of cycling and advocates for its integration into daily life and public transportation systems. By promoting cycling, we can achieve sustainable development goals, improve public health, and enhance community well-being, paving the way for a cleaner, healthier, and more connected world.
References
https://www.un.org/en/observances/bicycle-day
Image: Canva
