If everybody cycled as much as the Dutch, global carbon emissions would drop by nearly 700 million tonnes per year.
A study from the University of Southern Denmark - published by the Communications Earth and Environment journal - has urged people to saddle up like they do in the Netherlands. Dutch people cycle an average of 1.6 miles (2.6 km) each per day. If this pattern was replicated worldwide, the study suggests, annual global carbon emissions would drop by 686 million tonnes.
This mammoth figure exceeds the entire carbon footprint of most countries, including the UK, Canada, Saudi Arabia and Australia. “The significant untapped climate and health benefits of increasing bicycle use suggest an urgent need to promote sustainable bicycle use,” the authors conclude.
On an individual level, it is a great way to stay fit and healthy, staving off the chronic diseases associated with a sedentary lifestyle. Did you know that people who cycle to work have a 45 percent lower risk of developing cancer, and a 46 percent lower risk of cardiovascular disease?
But it’s not just good for you - it’s great for the environment, too. The transport sector accounts for a quarter of global fuel-related greenhouse gas emissions, with about half coming from private vehicles, including passenger cars and trucks.
The study authors recognise that not everyone lives in a cycle-friendly place - but call for an “urgent” expansion of cycling infrastructure worldwide. “Lessons learned from successful experiences in countries like Denmark and the Netherlands, particularly on the city level such as Copenhagen and Amsterdam, would be essential,” they write.