The alarming impact of global warming has made humans rethink the dire consequences of playing with nature. The booming growth of automobiles, reckless deforestation and overexploitation of natural resources have resulted in the breaking down of Mother Earth’s ability to heal and safeguard inhabitants living inside its womb.
In order to protect the planet from further damage, numerous initiatives have been taken by governments and humanitarian organisations worldwide to spread awareness amongst the people. One among those is the ‘World Bicycle Day’, passed in the United Nations General Assembly in 2018.
World Bicycle Day is observed every year on June 3 and aims to promote the benefits of riding a bicycle. The bicycle being one of the earliest man-powered modes of transportation symbolises progress and modernity. It also provided the modern-day framework for motorbikes, scooters and other modes of transport on two-wheels.
Bicycle for Health and Sustainable Future:
Bicycles are purely based upon human-driven mechanisms free from pollution, making them completely eco-friendly. It promotes a sustainable future and also contributes towards maintaining a healthier life.
Emission-free bicycles are even more ecological than modern-day EVs, which rely upon the lithium-ion battery, the production of which requires a significant exploitation of natural resources.
Using a bicycle for daily commuting can help reduce unnecessary traffic congestion and bring down the noise pollution level as there is no scope for unnecessary honking or engine noise.
According to the World Health Organisation, cycling for 20 minutes every day can lessen mortality risk by 10%. It also reduces risk related to cardiovascular diseases and Type 2 diabetes by 30%. Meanwhile, cancer-related morality is found 30% lower among bicycle commuters.
Cycling as a medium of exercise helps in reducing body fat and can help bring down growing obesity among the youth.
Social Impact:
Bicycles have a history going back to the 1800s. The first bicycle was invented in 1817 and has been around for two centuries as a handy mode of transport for all sections of society. It has laid the foundation for modern-day automotive, being an irreplaceable means of transportation for all.
The closely knitted human society beyond all the differences has equal passion and admiration for cycling and can emerge as a symbol of unity.
Adopting cycling as a part of life can lead to a sustainable future by reducing harmful impacts on nature reducing pollution, and promoting a healthier lifestyle.
