One of Bicycle City’s greatest benefits is its commitment to protecting Earth and its precious natural resources. The average person driving a two-year old car will emit around 11,000 pounds of pollutants into the air in just one year, depleting the earth’s ozone layer, polluting our air and contaminating water and food supply. As a car-free community, Bicycle City drastically reduces those pollutants while making it realistic and easy for people to live without depending on their vehicles. When cars are replaced with bicycles, transportation becomes healthier for the planet and for people.

Cars are a direct contributor to the global warming crisis, the largest threat to the earth as we know it. Cars emit carbon dioxide (CO2), which lock heat into the earth’s atmosphere and warm the planet, affecting weather patterns, melting ice and endangering life. Just one gallon of gasoline emits 20 pounds of CO2 into the atmosphere. Automobiles also emit nitrogen oxide, which contributes to acid rain and compromises water quality throughout the world.

Car emissions include hydrocarbons, which cause eye irritation, shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing and even permanent lung damage. Carbon monoxide from vehicles can impair mental function and visual perception. Cars contribute as much as 90% of the carbon monoxide in the air in urban areas! Nearly 1,500 cases of cancer each year can be attributed to auto emissions.

In addition to eliminating harmful vehicle pollutants, Bicycle City will promote eco-friendly living through green building techniques and alternative energy sources, including solar and wind power. Organic farming and other acts of sustainability will be encouraged. Finally, a large portion of Bicycle City is earmarked specifically for natural open space and active recreational activities such as hiking and softball.