Making Australia more bicycle friendly

The contribution that increasing participation in bike riding can make to the health of all Australians is one of the features of the recently released report 'The Critical Decade: Climate Change and Health' launched by the Climate Commission.

The report, authored by Professor Tony McMichael and Professor Lesley Hughes of Macquarie University, canvasses the direct and indirect health impacts of climate change now and into the future.

The health benefits of active travel (walking and cycling) and their ability to contribute to reducing greenhouse emissions are outlined in the independent Commission's report.

Cycling Promotion Fund's (CPF) spokesman, Stephen Hodge explains "the ability of the bicycle to not only provide an accessible and practical means to get around for short trips but also to have a positive health impact has again been highlighted by the Climate Commission's report.

"With nearly four million Australians choosing to ride a bicycle last year and interest in this convenient mode of travel at an all time high, investing in infrastructure and policies to increase the number of Australians who ride a bicycle is one of the best buys for our health and it makes a contribution to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

"But best of all, it will save people money and provide a very easy and enjoyable alternative to their car for short trips.

"Australian governments are also well aware of the benefits of increasing levels of bike riding with all state, territory and federal Ministers for Transport signing up to the National Cycling Strategy that aims to double the number of Australians who ride a bike by 2016.

"(This) report gives even more reasons to continue the effort."

The report 'The Critical Decade: Climate Change and Health' includes a section on 'Health benefits of reducing greenhouse gas emissions: the case of active travel' which outlines the evidence and benefits associated with active travel.

For more information go to www.cyclingpromotion.com.au

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