Jack Ambrose/Getty Images
READ MORE ABOUT:
This article is a bit different. It is written mostly for employers, though if you work for someone else, you can show it to your boss.
We still haven't surpassed the bicycle when it comes to green transportation. No pollution, which is better for the ecosystems on which we depend, good exercise, which is good for the rider's health, and more productive employees, which is good for the bottom line.
But why don't we see more bike commuters? There are many things keeping people from riding to work, and we can't offer solutions for all of them here. But one thing that makes a big difference is how bike-friendly (or rather, bike-unfriendly) the average workplace is.
What can you do about it? Here's a non-exhaustive list of tips (if you have other suggestions, please leave us a comment below):
1. Location, Location, Location
This is a tough one. Very important, but it can be hard to do something about it. But if you can: Try to pick a location that is accessible via bike. If your building is only accessible via the highway, don't wonder why nobody bikes to work...
2. Safe Bike Parking = Peace of Mind
Another very important factor in making a workplace bike-friendly: Provide a secure place to store bikes during the workday. Exterior bike racks are okay, but interior storage is much better.
3. Showers
Nothing worse than a long bike commute on a hot day and no place to shower when you get there.
Some people sweat more than others, some have longer or shorter commutes, but I'm pretty sure that almost all bike-commuters like to at least have the option to shower.
4. Money Incentives: Drop Some Cash
Some workplaces give incentives for public transportation, and the government has a $20/month tax incentive for bicycle commuters, but anything on top of that can help.
Motorists have so many incentives (many paid for by all tax-payers, including cyclists and people who don't own cars) that some incentives for bikers can only make things a big fairer.
5. Most Importantly: Ask Your Employees What They Want
That's a general rule to create a better workplace, but when it comes to bike-commuting, the needs will vary from place to place, so ask people what they want. Some might just be looking for official approval because they aren't sure how bike-commuting will be looked at by the boss (is it unprofessional?).
Related Posts
Commute to Work by Bike
How To Go Green: Commuting
-
- {}
