The Cyclist unions have a clear and main ambition, which is to strive for 25% increase in bicycle usage in 2020 which in turn is associated with 50% decrease in deaths in traffic.

 

Dutch citizens ride their bicycles a lot. However, there are still apparent differences between municipalities with regards to bicycle usage.

Many municipalities in the Netherlands can improve the position of public transport, specifically for the bicycle. There are more than enough reasons for this because riding a bike is not only healthy and good for the environment but also cheap and a proper alternative from other means of public transport to reach certain places. The following reasons encourage the stimulation of more bicycle usage:

 

• More and wider designated bicycle paths, due to the increasing amount of cyclists.

• Bicycle streets in residential areas, where the car can be seen as a guest and bikes the owner of that domain.

• Expanding the amount of (free) bicycle racks.

• A supply of a bicycle lessons for the people who are not accustomed to riding a bicycle anymore.

• When building new neighborhoods or restructuring existing neighborhoods, provide priority to cyclist and pedestrians.

• Improving the safety of cyclists in traffic.

• Drastically reduce bicycle theft by taking proper measures.

• Within Europe, or preferably worldwide, strive for a lower VAT rate on all bicycle products.

• Promotion of the job opportunities for cycling among employers.

• Discouraging the loud nuisance of the noises from all different kinds of motor bikes and cars.

• Providing more attention to cycling in healthcare and taking cycling seriously into consideration for the health movement.

• Extra financing for projects aimed at the stimulation of more bicycle usage.

 

More cycling also means:

• Less car or motor bike emissions.

• Less space needed for parking.

• Less environmental damage and waste.

• Less noise and traffic disturbances.

 

Think about your own influence on the environment that is something that everyone should do. Riding a bike is much more than just leaving your car at home. Being aware of the problem is the beginning of the solution.