A NEW report from the World Health Organisation shows that swapping driving for cycling just one day a week saves the equivalent emissions of a flight from London to New York – about half a tonne of carbon dioxide.
The report, co-authored by Dr Adrian Davis, professor of transport and health at Edinburgh Napier University, provides the latest evidence on the benefits and risks of active travel.
It stresses that for individuals and societies, promoting active travel is good for population health and the environment.
If one in five urban residents can be convinced to swap the driving seat for the saddle one day a week, it would cut emissions from all car travel in Europe by about 8%, the work found.
The health benefits of active travel are also laid bare with the report showing that active travellers have as much as a 40% lower risk of dying from cancer and a 52% lower risk of dying from heart disease compared to those commuting by car or public transport.
They also have a 46% lower risk of developing heart disease and a 45% lower risk of developing cancer at all. This means a greater quality of life.
The report also contains the latest evidence on the benefits of e-bikes which are bringing more people to cycling, including older adults for whom there is a positive impact on their health and wellbeing.
The report has been warmly welcomed by the Scottish Government.
Minister for Active Travel Patrick Harvie said: “I’m pleased to welcome this report from the World Health Organisation on the many benefits of active travel.
“This peer-reviewed publication – co-authored by Dr Davis from Edinburgh Napier University – provides the latest evidence base for policy makers across the globe on why investment in walking, wheeling and cycling is so important for our health, our cities and our environment.
“The vital role active travel can play in building healthier and happier lives is well recognised in Scotland.
“That’s why I’m proud the Scottish Government has committed to spend at least 10% of the transport budget on active travel by 2024/25, enabling a transformational investment in communities across the country.
“This report sets out all the benefits we will see as we make that shift.”
Co-author Davis said: “This report clearly shows that active travel is good for health and that we can all play our part in tackling climate change.
“As individuals, we can take actions which benefit our own health and that of others.
“People who walk or cycle as well as use cars have lower carbon footprints from all daily travel.
“More people switching some of their journeys to active travel would lower emissions.”
