Can We Cycle for Blue Skies? 

We realised how air pollution can affect our daily activities from the previous post where it has resulted in the ban of the Chinese New Year tradition to light fireworks in China. Ironically, it is human activities that cause air pollution. Therefore, we are capable in alleviating it through the adaptation of our behaviour. Today we shall explore how on we can fight air pollution by changing our commuter behaviour in choosing cycling as the alternate mode of transport. 

Copenhagen is widely regarded as one of the most bike friendly city in the world and cycling is considered as part of its city culture. This has greatly assisted the Danish government in resolving air pollution as cycling represents as an emission-free mode of transport. In addition, cycling can help to ease traffic congestion, which is a huge cause of air pollution in major cities.

Nevertheless, there are some health concerns with cycling in congested city centres or highways. For instance, there is a study conducted in Montreal, Canada on commuting behaviours and exposure to air pollution revealed that cyclists may inhale a higher amount of pollutants due to the higher breathing rates during cycling. To counteract the potential increased exposure to air pollutants, the study recommended city planners to designate specific thoroughfares for cyclists. For instance, cycling paths can be constructed away from the main roads or highways, thus minimising the exposure to air pollutants from the traffic. 

'Cycle Snake', Elevated Bike Lane in Copenhagen
Source: Dissing, Weitling architecture

In addition, I feel that other measures can also be applied to help minimise the amount of pollutants inhaled by the cyclists. For example, low emission zones can be designated in major roads in the city centre. Setting stricter age requirements for vehicles and other criteria such as the compulsory fitting of closed particulate filters to help lower the amount of particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide in the city centre.  

Many skeptics may be quick to point out that cycling may represent as an idealistic solution in tackling air pollution. This is because there are many other factors that can discourage people to prefer cycling over their private mode of transport and the level of success ultimately depends on whether people would prefer cycling over driving. For instance, Singapore where I hail from, has a hot and humid weather with a high occurrence of thunderstorms which is a huge factor that will discourage cyclists to cycle to work. However, there are already plans to expand the cycling network in Singapore and currently there is already a significant amount of Singaporeans that cycle to nearby MRT train stations. I believe that cycling is something that we individuals can do in the fight against air pollution.

Feel free to share any comments on how we might be able to encourage people to consider cycling as the alternative mode of transport and I really do appreciate comments! :)