Cycling is often the quickest way to make short journeys. It also has the advantage that it does not release air pollution to the atmosphere, unlike motorised forms of transport. Cycling has been popular in many European countries with excellent cycle lanes segregated from main road traffic routes. In the UK, cycling has declined in popularity during the last 20 years, and now accounts for only 1% of all distance travelled by road users. In June 2000 however, the UK’s first national cycle network was opened by Sustrans, the cycling charity, to encourage more people to cycle.
The provision of cycle and pedestrian routes, segregated from road networks, may encourage an increase in the number of short journeys being made by bike or foot. This could be assisted by improving cycle parking facilities at convenient locations and improving pedestrian access to and within public transport facilities.
Walking is a sustainable mode of transport that is available to all at no cost. The safer the walking environment the better, and hence the introduction of pedestranisation to city centres in the UK has increased the number of people that travel on foot. York and Cambridge are good examples of cities where improved conditions for pedestrians have brought an increase in pedestrian traffic. In the UK it has been found that 50% of all journeys are under two miles, and therefore are ideal for cycling or walking. Walking and cycling are also extremely healthy modes of transport, as they increase physical fitness
A 10% increase in the number of people cycling regularly would lead to a 4% reduction in the number of people with heart disease, saving the NHS 200 million a year. Cycling or walking briskly for half an hour a day can halve the risk of heart disease…that is as little as a 2 mile walk or 5 mile bike ride.
- Working from Home - March 21, 2024
- Eco-Friendly Companies in the UK - March 6, 2024
- Public Transport - February 15, 2020