Observed every year on June 3, World Bicycle Day aims to highlight the advantages of cycling and encourage more people to adopt it as a regular mode of transport for a more sustainable lifestyle.
Cycling not only serves as an efficient means of transportation but also offers a simple way to engage in lower-body workouts. It’s environmentally friendly and promotes physical fitness. Daily cycling can strengthen the heart and muscles, while also boosting mood and providing a sense of freedom.
Moreover, riding a bicycle allows us to travel without contributing to air pollution.
As the world prepares to mark this special occasion, it’s a good time to reflect on its significance.
Background
The initiative for World Bicycle Day was introduced by Polish-American social scientist Professor Leszek Sibilski, who was based in the United States. He launched a grassroots campaign to have the United Nations recognize the importance of cycling. His efforts gained momentum with the support of Turkmenistan and 56 other countries, eventually leading to a UN declaration.
In April 2018, the United Nations General Assembly officially designated June 3 as World Bicycle Day, to be observed annually.
Significance
"World Bicycle Day draws attention to the benefits of using the bicycle — a simple, affordable, clean and environmentally fit sustainable means of transportation. The bicycle contributes to cleaner air and less congestion and makes education, health care and other social services more accessible to the most vulnerable populations.
A sustainable transport system that promotes economic growth, reduces inequalities while bolstering the fight against climate change is critical to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals," wrote the United Nations on their official website.
Bd-pratidin English/FNC
