Active Travel - great for us, our communities and the planet

We spoke to the Greater Bendigo Climate Action Group about Active Travel, and they shared some great info and tips about how active travel isn't only great for the planet, but also for our health.

What is active travel?

Active travel is when we use walking, cycling (including e-bikes!) or other active modes of transport to commute to work, school, the shops, a park, friend’s house, or wherever you need to go.

Active travel can also include use of public transport for a longer trip where walking or cycling is used at either end.

The benefits of walking or cycling instead of driving

For you:

Low-cost activity, saves money on car running costs,
Increases physical activity levels,
Reduces the risk of many chronic health conditions,
Social and mental health benefits,
Can be quicker to cycle or walk in town centres instead of getting stuck in traffic and finding a car park.

For the community and you:

More environmentally friendly as it reduces car emissions,
Reduces local traffic

E-bikes can revolutionise your ride!

E-bike riders travel twice as far and take twice as many trips as standard bike riders,
Can easily carry bags, shopping, and children,
Are cheaper than running a car,
Less likely to need a change of clothes or shower at the end of the ride,
Still deliver physical health benefits

Tips and tricks for active travel

Always be visible on the road by wearing bright/light colours and using lights (even during the day) – see BikeBendigo.com for more information.
Find out if your workplace has any end of trip facilities where you can freshen up after your commute and safely secure your bike.
Check for novated leasing opportunities at your workplace.
Consider driving and parking a further distance from your destination than normal and walking in. This increases your physical activity and reduces the traffic especially in town centres.
Choose shops or cafes that are within walking distance to visit with friends or for work meetings.
Think about making weekend or after school family outings a walk or a ride to a park or swimming spot.