A Celebration of Sustainable Transportation World Bicycle Day, celebrated annually on June 3rd, is an international observance recognized by the United Nations (UN) to promote the benefits of cycling and raise awareness about the importance of bicycles as a sustainable mode of transportation.
ESTABLISHED BY UN
Established by the UN General Assembly in 2018, this day highlights the bicycle’s potential to contribute to sustainable development, reduce pollution, and improve physical and mental health.
ROLE IN CLEAN ENVIRONMENT
The bicycle has a long and fascinating history, transforming societies by providing even the poorest people with access to transport services. As a simple, affordable, reliable, clean, and environmentally fit means of transport, bicycles play a crucial role in promoting sustainability. By not using any gas, bikes don’t release harmful emissions that pollute the atmosphere, nor any carbon dioxide that contributes to climate change. Moderate increases in bicycle use each year could save an estimated 6 to 14 million tons of CO2. Celebrating World Bicycle Day serves as a reminder of the bicycle’s potential to address global problems such as climate change and public health. The celebration encourages individuals to consider cycling as an alternative mode of transportation, particularly for shorter distances. This helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, tackle the climate crisis, and improve overall health and fitness.
INITIATIVES
Various initiatives have been taken to recognize and celebrate World Bicycle Day. The General Assembly welcomed initiatives to organize bicycle rides at the national and local levels as a means of strengthening physical and mental health and well-being and developing a culture of cycling in society. Activities you can do on World Bicycle Day include going for a bike ride, hosting a bike-themed party, or learning about the history of the bicycle. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), physical activity has multiplicative health, social, and economic benefits, and investment in policy actions to increase physical activity can contribute to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Policies promoting physical activity through walking, cycling, sport, active recreation, and play support 13 of the SDGs. In conclusion, World Bicycle Day is a significant event that highlights the importance of cycling as one of the cleanest, most economical, and most sustainable modes of transportation. By celebrating this day, we can help limit climate change, promote sustainable transportation, and improve public health.
MORE INFORMATION
2. http://pedalandtringtring.com/2020/05/29/things-you-can-do-on-world-bicycle-day/
4. https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-bicycle-day
7. https://www.un.org/en/observances/bicycle-day
8. https://www.activesustainability.com/sustainable-life/bicycle-day/