Latest Climate of the Nation report - Yes to bikes, Yes to e-bikes and Yes to cargo bikes!
Yesterday's launch by the Australia Institute of their latest Climate of the Nation Report has provided a welcome focus on transport as a critical path to de-carbonising our nation.
WeRide attended the launch by the Hon Malcolm Turnbull and Australian Museum to support the work of the Institute and was very pleased to see the focus move to transport as one of the 'next big things' in climate action.
Above L-R: Zali Steggal MP, Hon Malcolm Turnbull, Richard Denniss, Kim McKay.
In line with this week's submission by WeRide and Australian bicycle organisations to the Government's National EV Strategy (NEVS) consultation, the Report showed very strong public support for action to allow more Australians to ride for their short trips, more support for incentives to do so and more support for transport spending to go to public transport, walking and cycling.
In an AAP news item, report author and Australia Institute transport lead Audrey Quicke said the survey of more than 2600 people clearly showed Australians wanted “to reap the benefits of the transition to clean transport”.
WeRide agrees! Our bicycle sector submission to the NEVS consultation pointed out that a real opportunity exists to change the way we move rapidly and effectively if some of the 50% of all trips we do in this country every day that are 5km or less are converted to walking, cycling and public transport. Global behaviour change to walking and cycling occurred during the pandemic but requires political courage and commitment to lock in now everyone is jumping back into their cars again.
The report also shows strong support for measures that reduce car dependency, we can't just replace all our existing internal combustion vehicles with EVs and expect life to get much better in our congested urban environments (although of course air quality and fuel use would be improved). Australian studies have shown that we want options to move around our communities actively and given the right conditions we'd be prepared to ride a bike.
Comments at the launch from Institute Executive Director, Richard Denniss, made it clear that the Report demonstrates clearly that Australians want action on climate change. WeRide is pleased to see this evidence that supports the work being done nationally with stakeholders on action to make the transition to active travel convenient, simpler and more affordable.
The upcoming Micromobility Conference is a key forum to hear the latest from experts in the field and incorporates our annual Summit - an event not to be missed. We'll be hosting our national Cycling Luminaries Awards as part of the conference with a Gala Dinner on Friday 25th November, and it will be a chance to hear about the inspirational work being done around Australia - from the most remote regions and communities to the major capitals - to make Australia a better place to ride a bike. Tickets are available through the Conference registration and booking portal.