National Bike to
Work Day on Friday, May 16, is the centerpiece of a month-long celebration
of bicycling, and the State of Indiana wants to recognize all employers,
schools, organizations, municipalities, and Hoosiers who embrace this
alternate form of transportation.
“Vehicles are the
No. 1 source of air pollution today in Indiana,” according to a statement
released jointly on Tuesday by several state agencies. “Substituting a car
trip with a bike ride or walking to a destination will reduce harmful
tailpipe emissions right at the source.”
IDEM Commissioner
Thomas Easterly regularly walks to work from his home in Downtown
Indianapolis and uses a bicycle for exercise, recreation, and small errands.
“Peddle power is good for air quality,” Easterly said.
“The DNR supports
Bike to Work Day and especially recognizes those in our agency who bike to
work on a regular basis,” Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
Director Cameron Clark said. “This day acknowledges the environmental and
physical health benefits bike riding provides to individuals and
communities. We take pride in the role our agency has in the continued
expansion of Indiana’s local trail systems that help make biking to work
safe and enjoyable.”
“Bicycle commuting
reduces vehicle congestion and saves money on fuel and parking,” the
statement said. “If you already ride a bicycle for pleasure, consider using
it for errands or even small trips to a store, friend’s house, concert, or
restaurant. Remember to observe traffic laws and practice safety tips when
bicycling and walking.”
Beginners can also
get advice and learn about local events and cycling organizations at local
bike shops.
And the Department
of Transportation’s Indiana State Roadway Bicycle Suitability Map--
www.in.gov/indot/files/LRP_BicycleSuitabilityMap.pdf--informs
cyclists about conditions on Indiana highways.
Other
transportation alternatives, such as sharing rides and using public
transportation, contribute to cleaner air, the statement said. For more
information bout public transportation in your community, check on line or
contact your local government for information.
Hoosiers can also
take these simple steps to reduce emissions when driving.
¥Avoid idling.
Rather than waiting in drive-through lanes, park and go inside.
¥When picking up
family members, turn off the engine while waiting.
¥Get regular engine
tune-ups and inflate tires to the proper pressure.
¥When it’s time to
replace your vehicle, choose an energy efficiency model. Information on
popular makes is available through U.S. EPA’s Smartway website at
www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/you/smartway.htm
To find more clean
air tips, visit the IDEM website at
www.in.gov/idem/airquality/2589.htm
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Posted 5/14/2014
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