Bicycles have been in use for over two centuries, and World Bicycle Day on June 3rd is the perfect time to celebrate this reliable, sustainable, and healthy mode of transportation. Whether you prefer traditional or electric bikes, take a ride to mark this special day with your friends and family.
As you enjoy your ride and the happiness it brings, have you ever wondered about the broader benefits of cycling? In this blog, we will discuss why encouraging cycling everywhere is crucial for a better future, not just for individuals but for society as a whole.
For a Greener Planet
Climate change is already impacting the world with extreme weather conditions like droughts, heat waves, heavy rains, floods, and landslides becoming more frequent. Other consequences include rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and less biodiversity.
To combat global warming, we have set a goal to achieve global carbon neutrality by 2050. This ambitious target requires a collective effort, and cycling is one of the simplest ways to contribute.
Bikes and e-bikes are so energy-efficient that they can often replace cars and buses for short-distance travel. Unlike cars or buses, they do not emit any greenhouse gases or toxic fumes. If you replace car trips with bike rides for daily commuting, the carbon savings can amount to 1.55 metric tonnes per year, equivalent to planting 71 trees in your city.
Many European countries do a good job of promoting bike use. In Belgium and Switzerland, 48% of the population rides bikes. The Netherlands holds the record for the most bicycles per capita. Cyclists are also plentiful in Norway, Sweden, Germany, and Denmark. Copenhagen, the Danish capital, is considered the most bicycle-friendly city in the world, with 52% of the population using bikes for their daily commute.
If more countries adopt similar cyclist-friendly policies, achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 will become much more attainable.
For Better Public Health
Besides saving the planet, biking is one of the best ways to improve public health. Cycling is not only a fast, flexible, and reliable mode of transportation, it is also an excellent form of exercise.
Biking or e-biking is an aerobic activity that works your heart, blood vessels, and lungs. You will breathe deeper, perspire, and experience an increased body temperature, all of which contribute to improved overall fitness.
The health benefits of regular cycling include:
- Increased cardiovascular fitness
- Enhanced muscle strength and flexibility
- Improved joint mobility
- Reduced stress levels
- Better posture and coordination
- Strengthened bones
- Lower body fat levels
- Prevention or management of diseases
- Reduced anxiety and depression
The best part? No gym membership is required—you can get all the exercise you need while commuting or running errands. More cycling commuters typically mean a healthier population and less strain on public health systems. Improved physical health also leads to better mental health.
For Reduced Poverty
For millions of people in rural, underserved communities, bicycles provide a powerful mobility solution, granting access to opportunities and services that are often out of reach. This not only improves individual lives but also strengthens families and communities.
Research by World Bicycle Relief shows that cycling can reduce commute times for children and adults by up to 75% compared to walking. This increased efficiency allows for more time to study, greater productivity, and less fatigue. In schools where students received bikes, attendance rates increased by up to 28%, and academic performance improved by up to 59%.
Additionally, entrepreneurs with bicycles can travel four times farther, carry five times more goods, and increase their profits by up to 50%. What’s more, healthcare workers on bikes have been able to visit more than twice the number of patients per day. These changes are particularly significant for underdeveloped countries in Africa.
Final Words
Ride for a better future, not just on World Bicycle Day, but every day. As a trusted e-bike manufacturer, CYCROWN promotes a healthy and positive lifestyle. Join our CYCROWN Enthusiasts Group and start embracing an active, healthy, and sustainable way of living.
