Cycling is one of the most environmentally friendly forms of transport possible. It produces no greenhouse gases or toxic air pollution. What's more it's quiet, keeps you fit, requires less road space than cars and is much less likely to cause a serious accident than cars.

   For short local trips, cycling can often be just as quick as going by car if you take into account parking and traffic.

   Try to identify some local trips you can do by bike. Fit a basket and panniers to your bike so you can use it for shopping trips. And support campaigns for more cycle routes.