Did you know?
- 68% of our journeys are less than five miles. Leave the car if you’re not going far – choose walking, cycling or wheeling instead.
Small steps can make a big difference
Every journey we make by car, bus or train contributes to our carbon emissions. We can help you choose the most sustainable way of getting around.
- Walking, cycling and wheeling don’t create any CO2 emissions at all.
- Leaving the car behind can help reduce congestion and air pollution in your community.
- Being active on your journeys is good for your health and wellbeing.
- You could save money too – reducing your car use by a quarter could save up to £379 a year in fuel costs alone.
Walk or wheel
Walking or wheeling are great options for a zero carbon journey. Walking costs nothing, and wheeling provides more opportunity to get out and about. Both are great ways to boost your health and wellbeing too. What’s not to love?!
- If you choose to walk or wheel just one mile a week instead of driving, you’ll save 27kg of CO2 a year.
- The NHS recommends walking as a form of exercise.
- It’s quicker than you think – on average, you can walk a mile in around 15 – 20 minutes. It could take longer to find your car keys!
Living Streets UK has more walking tips on its website.
Get on your bike
There’s a national cycle network, in addition to the many dedicated cycle routes in towns and cities across the UK, so there’s no limit to how far your bike can take you.
- Cycling is a zero carbon form of transport.
- It builds muscle and is linked to improved heart and lung capacity.
- In towns, cycling can save time as you filter through the traffic.
Cycling UK has lots more cycling tips and advice on its website.
Go electric
If you want a bit of extra power when you’re cycling, try an ebike. eBikes have an electric motor and battery attached to a regular bicycle to help you cover more ground that on a conventional cycle.
- Ideal for anyone who might find cycling physically challenging.
- It speeds up your journey time.
- It provides between 25-100 miles of pedal power on a single charge.
Find out more in our blog on ebikes
Need a bit of support to find your feet?
Whether it’s taking things slow on a short walk or using an adapted cycle to get around, being active can benefit us all. Get inspired by Jackie, who uses an ebike to cycle with ease and without pain.
- Gain independence and enjoy a sense of freedom.
- Improve your fitness and wellbeing while reducing your carbon footprint.
- Enjoy getting out and about with friends and family.
Cycling UK’s Inclusive Cycling Network helps thousands of people to experience cycling for the first time each year – find out more on their website.
Last updated: 17 September 2021
