Transportation plays a vital role in the development of any community. The mode of transportation chosen often influences the health, social and environmental well-being of the community. Many individuals opt for personal vehicles instead of walking or cycling for transportation, causing a rise in air pollution, health complications, and urban congestion. Over the years, however, there has been a shift in focus towards making walking and cycling more convenient for transport. In this article, we will explore the benefits of choosing cycling and walking for transportation for your community’s health.
Promotes Physical Activity
Cycling and walking for transportation encourage an active lifestyle. Unlike using a car, cycling and walking not only require physical activity, but they also provide the opportunity for individuals to engage in necessary exercise. Cardiovascular diseases such as stroke, heart attacks, and high blood pressure are some of the common illnesses that can be prevented by physical activity. Cycling and walking help to reduce obesity and improve mental health.
Encourages Social Interaction
Personal vehicles can isolate individuals from the community. In contrast, cycling and walking create an opportunity to interact with the community. A pedestrian or cyclist is more likely to engage with others, especially with the promotion of community walking and cycling groups. These groups offer a sense of community, promote communication, and give solutions to common transport issues. Additionally, they provide an opportunity for individuals to make new friends and improve their social support networks.
Reduces Air Pollution
Cars are one of the leading contributors to air pollution, which can lead to respiratory diseases. Walking and cycling do not emit pollutants into the environment, giving the community a cleaner atmosphere. This decreases carbon dioxide emissions, promoting a cleaner and healthier living environment. Reduced air pollution also encourages flowers and other outdoor vegetation to grow.
Safer for Children
Children are vulnerable to road traffic accidents on their way to and from school, especially when transported by car. Cycling and walking for transportation offer an opportunity for children to develop road safety and cycling skills, which can help to prevent road accidents. Pedestrian and cycling infrastructure is designed to keep vulnerable road users, including children, safe from motorists and enhance their experience.
Cost-effective
Cycling and walking for transportation is cost-effective. The cost of fuel and maintenance of a car can be expensive, pushing low-income individuals to use cheaper, and often less environmentally friendly modes of transportation. Cycle, pedestrian, and cycling infrastructure is often maintained by the community and, in most cases, is more affordable than the upkeep of a vehicle. In countries like the Netherlands and Denmark, where cycling and walking are the prominent modes of transportation, cycling and pedestrian infrastructure is well designed and maintained, encouraging their use.
Improves Mental Health
The physical and mental benefits of cycling and walking for transportation cannot be overemphasized. Exercising releases endorphins, which are hormones that create a feeling of happiness and well-being, reducing stress levels. This can lead to better mental health outcomes among individuals of all ages, reducing the chances of depression among the population.
Increased Productivity
Cycling and walking can increase productivity. Individuals who cycle or walk to work tend to be more productive, efficient and alert compared to those who use a car. This is because cycling and walking provide additional time for reflection on the day’s goals, without the distractions of driving.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cycling and walking for transportation plays a significant role in developing a healthy and thriving community. The benefits of cycling and walking for transportation cannot be overemphasized, from promoting physical activity to reducing air pollution. By investing in cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, communities can reduce traffic congestion, increase social interactions and encourage active transportation. Making cycling and walking the primary modes of transportation in communities can result in a healthier and more productive population.