Introduction
Public transportation has become the cornerstone of active transportation in many cities around the world. Active transportation advocates for walking, cycling, and public transit as alternatives to driving, which has numerous benefits for individuals and communities. Public transportation provides support to active transportation, meaning that it helps in promoting healthy lifestyles, less reliance on cars, more walkable neighborhoods, and increased environmental sustainability. In this article, we explore the benefits of public transportation for active transportation in detail.
Support for Physical Fitness
Active transportation promotes physical fitness, which is essential for health and well-being. Walking and cycling are two of the most popular active transportation modes. Public transportation complements these modes by providing a convenient way to reach further destinations or when the weather is unfavorable for walking or cycling. In essence, public transportation promotes increased physical activity levels by enabling individuals to incorporate active transportation into their daily lives. Commuting by public transport also reduces the need for car trips and promotes healthier forms of transportation.
Reduced Dependence on Cars
Public transportation reduces dependence on cars, thereby promoting active transportation. Many people who rely on cars exclusively for transportation may find it challenging to transition to active transportation without the existence of public transport. Public transportation is particularly relevant to people who live in areas where walking or biking to work or other destinations is not possible or safe. The availability of public transport means that people who live in such areas can use public transport to access other parts of the city where active transportation is possible. The less reliance people have on cars, the more inclined they are to embrace active transportation.
Create More Walkable Neighbourhoods
Public transportation creates more walkable neighborhoods, which are safer and healthier. In many cities, public transportation connects people to shops, schools, work, and other destinations necessary for daily living. This connectivity contributes to the creation of more walkable neighborhoods where people can walk to access the public transportation system, and explore the local neighborhood on foot. A more walkable neighborhood means that people can reduce car trips and rely on active transportation, which is more sustainable.
Improved Mental Health
Active transportation has numerous benefits for mental health, including reducing depression and anxiety, and promoting a positive mood. Public transportation supports active transportation, which means it promotes mental health. For instance, public transportation provides a safe and convenient way for people to access active transportation infrastructure such as bike lanes and walking paths. Public transportation also promotes social interaction, which is beneficial for mental health. Commuting by public transportation provides people with opportunities to interact with others in the community, which enhances feelings of social connectedness.
Environmental Sustainability
Active transportation is essential for environmental sustainability; it promotes the use of environmentally-friendly modes of transportation, such as walking and cycling. Public transportation also supports environmental sustainability by reducing the use of cars and promoting sustainable modes of transportation. Cars are one of the leading contributors to environmental pollution and climate change. Public transport provides a more sustainable way for individuals to travel while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This is good for both the environment and public health.
Conclusion
Public transportation is an essential complement to active transportation because it supports and promotes the use of active transportation modes. Active transportation has numerous benefits for individuals and communities, including promoting physical fitness, reducing dependence on cars, creating more walkable neighborhoods, and improving mental health. Public transportation supports active transportation by providing a convenient way for people to travel further distances or when adverse weather conditions make active transportation inconvenient. It also promotes environmentally sustainable ways for people to travel, which is necessary for a healthier planet. By embracing both active transportation and public transportation, cities can create healthier, more sustainable, and more equitable communities.