Happy World Bicycle Day 2022!
Happy World Bicycle Day!
Brief History
The World Bicyce Day was first acknowledged by the United Nations (UN) in 2018 after Leszek Sibilski, a Polish-American sociology professor and avid cyclist, campaigned for a day which would celebrate the bicycle and all that it is able to provide for us in terms of exercise, transportation, sustainability, and much more.
During the General Assembly, in which World Bicycle Day was approved, the UN stated the importance of the “uniqueness, longevity and versatility of the bicycle” should be acknowledged.
The fact that the bicycle is “a simple, affordable, reliable, clean and environmentally fit sustainable means of transportation, fostering environmental stewardship and health” was also mentioned as a point of consideration.
The UN also made a point of emphasising the fact that “the bicycle is a symbol of sustainable transportation and conveys a positive message to foster sustainable consumption and production, and has a positive impact on climate”.
Additionally, recognising “that the bicycle can serve as a tool for development and as a means not just of transportation but also of access to education, health care and sport” due to its ability to cultivate and nurture “creativity and social engagement”, when there is a positive collaboration between the bicycle and its user, is worth noting, according to the UN.
If you are looking for something to do during the summer break from your studies or work, then perhaps exploring Finland by bike is just the thing!
Most cities in Finland are very bike friendly, with some offering the possibility to rent city bikes (for example in Helsinki, Raasepori, and Turku, to name a few) for those who do not own one or who are just visiting briefly, in addition to being close enough to parks, forests, and/or bodies of water so that you can go and spend peaceful quality time in nature!
Novia University of Applied Sciences would love to see the different places where our students, staff, and alumni cycle during their commutes or free time, so please feel free to share your favourite bike photos and tag @yrkeshogskolannovia on Instagram!
Further Information
For information regarding safe traffic rules for cyclists, and what your responsibilities and rights are as a cyclist, in Finland, please go and visit the Pyöräliitto website.