The Clean Air Action Group has joined an open letter from more than 250 organisations calling on governments attending the UN Climate Change Conference in Glasgow (COP26) to significantly increase the number of cyclists in their countries to achieve global climate goals quickly and effectively.

Every opportunity must be taken to halt the growth of CO2 emissions from passenger and freight transport. A shift to zero-emission cars and trucks would take decades and would not solve problems such as rapidly increasing consumption of raw materials, congestion and sedentary lifestyles. Nevertheless, COP26’s Transport Day on 10 November focused exclusively on the electrification of road vehicles.

The letter’s signatories believe that cycling is one of humanity’s great hopes for a carbon-free future. The widespread availability of bicycles means zero emissions, while globally transport is responsible for 24 percent of direct carbon dioxide emissions from fuel combustion. Switching from car to bike can save up to 150 grams of carbon dioxide emissions per kilometre. The emissions associated with electric vans and tricycles are a tenth of those associated with diesel vans. By switching from the car to walking or cycling even one day a week, one can reduce her/his carbon emissions by around half a tonne in a year.

Zoltán Pogátsa, Board Member of the Clean Air Action Group said, “Besides the environmental benefits, cycling brings huge economic benefits for the whole society. On the other hand, car and truck use cause enormous economic losses to our society. According to a study commissioned by the European Commission's, the use of cars and trucks in Hungary costs society three times as much as their users pay through taxes and fees.”

András Lukács, President of the Clean Air Action Group added: “Several employees of the Clean Air Action Group, including myself, regularly cycle to our office which is 11-15 kilometres from our homes. Many people could do this, it is just a matter of decision.”