Tuesday, May 7, 2024
1...
min
The bicycle is one of the most environmentally friendly and sustainable means of transportation, which is why more and more Spaniards are using it as their preferred option for their travels. Every day is “Bicycle Day”.
By Rafael Hernández
Mountain bikes, road bikes, urban bikes, hybrid bikes, electric bikes... endless options that cover all needs. Karl Freiherr von Drais, who is credited with inventing the bicycle - initially called the draisine - could not have imagined that his creation would become one of the most important two-wheeled means of transportation on the planet. This is demonstrated by the more than 1 billion bicycles that exist worldwide.
According to the Ipsos study “Cycling in the World”, the bicycle is the most supported means of transportation by the population: 82% of the global population, on average, has a favorable opinion about this means of transportation. And the truth is that the bike constitutes an economic and ecological way of getting around, becoming a fundamental sustainable alternative for decarbonizing light transportation.
Rolling for the environment
There is a global consensus on the key role of bicycles in reducing carbon emissions. According to the World Bank, sustainable transportation is an essential element for promoting inclusive growth, expanding access to essential services, and combating climate change. “Rethinking mobility is now a priority in order to improve countries’ resilience and create the conditions for a greener and more inclusive recovery,” states the World Bank.
More and more cities around the world are promoting the use of bicycles among their residents. In Amsterdam, for example, bicycles are part of its landscape, however, it has more than 400 kilometers of bike lanes as well as numerous exclusive bike parking areas. However, it is not the only place where it has become an essential means of transportation. Denmark, Germany, Switzerland, Norway and Finland are promoting the use of this vehicle as the best option for their travels.
Through the “European Declaration on the use of bicycles”, the European Union has expressed the commitment of member countries to build more bike lanes and secure parking, improve cyclist safety, and promote plans to encourage the transition from four wheels to two. “Our goal is to unlock the full potential of bicycle use in the Union. This Declaration recognizes the use of bicycles as one of the most sustainable, accessible, and inclusive forms of transportation and leisure, with low cost and health benefits. It also acknowledges its key importance for European society and economy,” as stated in the text.
In Spain , the State Bicycle Strategy, developed by the Ministry of Transport, Mobility and Urban Agenda, to promote its use, is also being implemented. Over the next ten years, we anticipate the creation of 1,000 more kilometers of bike lanes and 4,100 parking spaces is planned, as well as the strengthening of public bike sharing systems in around thirty cities. The transformation of new mobility involves promoting the use of sustainable transportation, and this is where the bicycle will play a very important role.
¿Te ha parecido interesante?
