In a world facing increasing threats from climate change and mass pollution, individuals must take action to help protect our environment. Simple, everyday things such as recycling help with this, but reducing carbon emissions is crucial to the survival of our planet, whether that involves flying less or cutting down on unnecessary car journeys. It’s the latter we’re going to talk about today — alternatives to jumping in the car just to pop down the road, or even for longer journeys. Walking and cycling are great forms of exercise, but they also help protect the environment.
Reducing Carbon Emissions
There are several ways to reduce carbon emissions. Avoiding unnecessary flights is a good example, or switching to a less meat-heavy diet (the meat industry is responsible for a large proportion of global emissions). But studies show that most of our daily journeys are less than three miles long, an ideal opportunity to put on your trainers for a walk or to jump on the bike. Emissions from cars include carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter. CO2 in particular traps heat in the atmosphere, affecting not only the environment but also our health. Many workplaces and schools are actively promoting cycling through initiatives that could save literally millions of daily car journeys worldwide.
Cyclist and Pedestrian Friendly Zones
With fewer cars and more bikes on the roads, the need for change in infrastructure is clear. And as pedestrians and cyclists increase in volume, pressure will be put on local authorities to create spaces that are greener and safer for non-motorists. Cycle lanes are now widespread in many major cities, making it safer and quicker for cyclists to make journeys, long or short. For longer journeys, especially, it’s crucial to choose the right bike for you and your needs. Whether they’re cycling for pleasure or simply commuting to work, bike lanes help protect cyclists. And for pedestrians, traffic-free zones often mean green areas springing up, which promote good physical health and mental well-being.
Local Biodiversity
Whether you live in the remote countryside or a bustling city, biodiversity is crucial for maintaining balance in the local area, affecting air quality, flora, and cleaner waterways. It’s now widely accepted that climate change is a serious threat to the planet and is seriously affecting the biodiversity on Earth. Changing our lifestyle and taking our foot off the gas pedal can only be beneficial and help counteract the drastic dangers we face. City planning prioritising pedestrians and cyclists is crucial for this as well, with more green spaces superseding traffic route expansion.
Reducing Noise Pollution
Pollution doesn’t just come in the form of emissions and littering. Our cities are more densely packed than ever, and that means noise pollution, which can be damaging for physical and mental health. It also disturbs animals, and studies have shown that birds are being driven from some of their natural habitats by the sounds of cars, trucks, and buses. Animals are vital to maintaining the balance of the environment, and, for example, birds and butterflies relocating affects the entire local ecosystem, and can lead to the decline of trees and plants in the area. By reducing the amount of traffic on the roads by walking or cycling, we are also cutting down on engine noise and congestion.
Other Benefits
There are, of course, many other benefits to cycling and walking rather than using a car. Walking is a straightforward way to help with cardio, and many phones have apps that track the number of steps you take each day. You can also get watches that track your progress and let you know how you’re getting on. Cycling is a fantastic way to exercise, and you don’t have to limit your cycling to roads. Many are turning to mountain biking as a form of exercise and leisure, and going off-road can be a high-octane experience (as well as a calming and relaxing one). Physical health is one thing, but the boost in endorphins also benefits our mental well-being, leading to a less stressful life in what is an increasingly hectic world.
There has never been a more important moment for ditching the motor and getting on your feet or your bike. Whether you’re commuting or simply enjoying time in the great outdoors, you can benefit the planet, help reduce emissions, and boost your own health at the same time.