Promoting Sustainable Transportation in Peterborough
Peterborough GreenUP’s efforts to encourage healthy and active transportation modes in the city continue beyond the month of May. The organization aims to sustain the momentum for alternatives to solo car trips, such as walking, cycling, taking transit, carpooling, and telecommuting throughout the year.
While the ‘Shifting Gears’ May Challenge has ended, GreenUP is determined to keep the wheels turning. Ashley Burnie, the program coordinator, hopes that the initiative serves as a catalyst for long-term changes in the community. The challenge encouraged Peterborough residents to embrace active and sustainable transportation options, and GreenUP celebrates the participants who collectively took 6,472 trips covering 46,627 kilometres in May.
The recent awards ceremony and bike-in movie celebrated the commitment of the participants and highlighted the personal and community benefits of choosing eco-friendly transportation methods. The program aims to promote daily physical activity, cost savings, social interactions, reduced congestion, improved air quality, and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
With Peterborough’s compact size and extensive network of trails, bike lanes, and public transit routes, the city offers ample opportunities to shift away from single-occupancy vehicle trips. The Shifting Gears initiative, now in its 20th year, engages community members, schools, businesses, and families in promoting sustainable transportation options.
Beyond the May Challenge, GreenUP continues to offer various programs and events to support active commuting and bike culture in Peterborough. June, known as “Bike Month,” will feature pop-up events and a bike maintenance workshop to encourage cycling in the community.
To learn more about the Shifting Gears program and upcoming opportunities, visit the GreenUP website at greenup.on.ca/shifting-gears/.