Transportation

The bicycle is a perfect example of the permaculture principle that everything should have multiple functions. And as permaculture is one of the key cornerstones of the Transition movement, I think this qualifies bikes as a brilliant thing for a Transition Initiative to get involved in. Let me elaborate.

A few years ago it seemed quixotic to declare city streets as commons belonging to all of us. Cars were the undisputed Kings of the Road. But things are now changing in many places around the U.S. with the rise of Green Lanes — bicycles lanes physically separated from rushing traffic, which makes people feel more safe and secure pedaling around town. Pedestrians and motorists also benefit from this transportation transformation, as bicyclists no longer ride on the sidewalk or take up lanes meant for motor vehicles.

The single biggest reason for Dutch success in making biking safe and popular is their policy of separating bike lanes from moving vehicles on busy streets, either by physical barriers such as curbs or bright painted markings on the pavement.