Help Ireland Become Eco-Friendly As More People Use Bicycles

Ireland is fast becoming one of Europe’s eco-friendly cities as it introduces incentives for eco-friendly transportation. Already well know for the scenic cycling tours offered for tourists and residents, Ireland is becoming eco-friendly as more people use bicycles for every day transportation.

Usually, people cycle for exercise, relaxation or fun. As soon as we are old enough to drive a car, we dump the bicycle for fuel-guzzling, environment-destroying vehicles. To counteract this, the Irish government has launched a tax exemption scheme called ‘Bike to Work’. This scheme offers purchasers of a new bicycle or related safety equipment up to the value of 1000 Euros, a tax exemption benefit. Because the scheme is intended to motivate residents to cycle to work, the employer must register for the scheme in order for employees to benefit from the incentive. If less time spent in traffic jams and lower fuel costs weren’t enough of an incentive, cyclists are encouraged to consider the health benefits of regular exercise as well.

Ireland has gained a reputation as a cycling-friendly country already, with cycling lanes in most cities and towns – as much as 209km in Dublin – and the number of cyclists increasing each year. The number of cyclists increased by 8% from 2007 and 2009, with around 35 000 people cycling every day. This represents only 3% of the total number of trips made though, hence government’s push to increase the number of people using bicycles to work. Because many of the cycling lanes are shared with buses, there are initiatives underway to improve this, as well as providing better parking facilities for cyclists and educating both drivers and cyclists on road safety issues.

Comparatively speaking, Ireland is one of Europe’s most eco-friendly countries in terms of the number of cyclists they have. The tourist industry has long taken advantage of the scenic surroundings, offering cycling tours and holidays throughout much of the country. Whether you have planned a cycling holiday or not, you can easily find a bike to rent and set off on the many well-kept routes through the countryside. Instead of using a fuel-guzzling taxi or rental car, use your bicycle to ride to nearby sightseeing spots, or into town for a bite to eat or to grab a pint. Just think – you can eat as much as you want, since you’ll be working it off on the ride back to your guesthouse or hotel.

Cycling tours allow you to experience the countryside in a way that is just not possible confined in a car. If you are on a mountain bike, you can reach spots that cars cannot, often providing you with a better view or a different perspective of the sights.

Another initiative that is gaining in popularity is a bike scrapping scheme, launched in Mayo County. Trade in your old bicycle for a discount on a new one, and ride away on a safer, newer bicycle. Launched by local entrepreneurs, this scheme helps Ireland become eco-friendly, adding another reason to stop making excuses and get on your bike!

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