Cycling

In the early 1800's the prelude to the bicycle was made of wood, made for a very uncomfortable ride, and was not a popular concept. The world has changed and cycling has become a full-service part of the world of transportation, exercise, and leisure time activities. There are a wide variety of cycling activities, all the way from biking to school, to spinning (stationary biking in gyms for intense exercise) to the Tour de France.

However, cycling as a sustainable practice has experienced a renaissance like no other form of alternative transportation known to man. Communities that are embracing cycling as a central component to a sustainable future understand that the following four concepts are established with the implementation of a cycling program.

1. Reduce and calm auto traffic- Cycling suffuses a quiet and fuel-free transportation method to those communities that utilize this free form approach. Amsterdam is known as the most popular city in the world when it comes to cycling and their style of inclusion of the cycling mode has brought about a vast savings in fuel and tourist trade.

2. Enables Family Health - It is well-known that there is an obesity epidemic in our world, and kids are suffering more than they should. Those families that incorporate cycling as a family activity, not just for leisure, but for short trips to the store, or rides to school are setting a standard for sustainable living.

3. Air Pollution Shrinkage - Bicycles do not emit carbon. Human pedal power eliminates the vast amounts of carbon emissions that become a part of the air we breathe with more cars, trucks, and buses on the road.

4. Generates Safer Streets - The less cars on the road translates to less accidents and less opportunity for injuries of any kind. Bicycle safety and helmets adds to the safety of this important method of alternative transportation.

Cycling, as a form of alternative transportation is being seen in communities, businesses, and schools as an integral segment of a sustainable future.