Copenhagen gave cyclists a green wave
10 hours ago
- #sustainable transport
- #Copenhagen
- #urban cycling
- Copenhagen introduced 'green waves' 16 years ago, synchronizing traffic lights for cyclists traveling at 20km/h to encourage biking.
- The city plans to expand green waves to 15 more routes to further promote cycling and reduce car use.
- Copenhagen's cycling infrastructure, including cycle superhighways, has helped reduce CO2 emissions by 6% in a study.
- Despite progress, challenges remain in reducing car use among commuters from outside the city.
- The city is investing in cycling improvements, including better green waves, lighting, and the country's longest cycling bridge.
- Cycling culture in Copenhagen faces congestion during peak hours, raising questions about space allocation between cars and bikes.
- Copenhagen competes with Amsterdam as Europe's cycling capital, with other cities like Paris and London catching up.
- Efforts to improve cycling safety and flow include 'bicycle barometers' and advanced traffic light systems that detect cyclists.
- Experts suggest that dedicated cycling highways, separate from car traffic, are the most effective for promoting biking.
- Cycling not only benefits the environment but also reduces road fatalities and pollution from vehicles.