In 2018, the United Nations General Assembly declared June 3rd as World Bicycle Day, recognizing the importance of bicycles in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. The event aims to promote bicycles as an affordable, efficient and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. They have many benefits, including reducing traffic congestion, improving air quality, promoting physical activity and enhancing mental health. In addition, cycling is a low-impact exercise that improves cardiovascular health and helps prevent chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease.
World Bicycle Day History
The idea of celebrating World Bicycle Day was first proposed by Professor Leszek Sibierski, a Polish-American social scientist working in the United States. He started a grassroots campaign that got the United Nations to join in celebrating World Bicycle Day every year. He eventually gained the support of Turkmenistan and 56 other countries.
Celebrating World Bicycle Day
To celebrate World Bicycle Day, people around the world organize cycling events, rallies and competitions. These events provide an opportunity for people to come together and promote cycling as a fun and healthy activity. They also raise awareness of the importance of investing in cycling infrastructure such as bike lanes, bike parking and bike-sharing schemes.
Overall, World Bicycle Day is an important event to promote the use of bicycles as a sustainable means of transport. It highlights the many benefits of cycling and encourages people to integrate cycling into their daily lives. By promoting cycling, we can create healthier, more sustainable and more liveable communities for everyone.