Here is Why Governments Paying People to Bike to Work Makes Sense

Paying people to bike to work is right in line with a growing emphasis on sustainability, health, and reducing traffic congestion. One simple yet effective solution gaining traction is incentivizing bicycle commuting. Beyond the individual benefits of cycling, there are broader societal advantages that governments and workplaces should consider.

For instance, in the province of Ontario, highway infrastructure and repair is a massive expense. We are talking billions of dollars and as long as people drive an hour every day to get into downtown Toronto to work, it isn’t going to change. Cost of living is sky high, inflation is still pushing prices up, the climate crisis comes with a multi-billion-dollar annual tab and counting, affordability is off the charts, and driving a car is one of the costliest items in any family budget with an average cost of more than $12,000. Seriously?

All that is really required to get people to make a massive modal shift is safe cycling infrastructure, which many cities are already building, and a little incentive.

Let’s delve into why paying people to bike to work could be a game-changer.

Paying People to Bike to Work Benefits

Health Benefits

Cycling isn’t just a means of transportation; it’s a form of exercise with myriad health benefits. Regular physical activity, such as cycling, reduces the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. By encouraging bicycle commuting through financial incentives, governments and workplaces promote healthier lifestyles among their populations and employees, leading to reduced healthcare costs in the long run.

Environmental Impact

Cars are a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, whereas bicycles produce zero emissions. By incentivizing cycling, governments can reduce carbon footprints, improve air quality, and mitigate the environmental impact of transportation. This aligns with global efforts to transition towards more sustainable modes of travel.

Traffic Congestion Reduction

Encouraging bicycle commuting can alleviate congestion by reducing the number of cars on the road. This not only benefits cyclists but also improves overall traffic flow, making commuting smoother for everyone. Consequently, cities can invest less in expanding road infrastructure and instead focus on developing cycling infrastructure, such as bike lanes and parking facilities.

Economic Benefits

Paying people to bicycle to work can have positive economic implications. For individuals, cycling reduces transportation costs associated with fuel, maintenance, and parking fees. This extra disposable income can be spent elsewhere, stimulating local economies. Moreover, increased bicycle usage creates opportunities for businesses catering to cyclists, such as bike shops, repair services, and cafes along cycling routes.

Improved Mental Well-being

Commuting by bike offers more than physical benefits; it also positively impacts mental well-being. Cycling reduces stress, improves mood, and boosts cognitive function. By promoting bicycle commuting, governments and workplaces prioritize employee well-being, leading to higher job satisfaction, productivity, and overall happiness.

Where it already happens

In countries like Belgium, tax-free bonuses are added to an employee’s paycheck each month for cycling to work instead of driving a personal car, with incentives reaching €0.25 per kilometer. These programs are not limited to Belgium; the Netherlands and the UK offer similar schemes, with the UK providing a mileage allowance of approximately US $0.26 per mile for cyclists commuting to work. Additionally, the UK offers a lease-to-own incentive program for cyclists.

An article on Electrek also cites GoCycle’s policy of paying employees to commute by e-bike and Luxembourg’s tax incentive for buying bicycles.

Across Europe, there are over 300 tax-incentive and purchase-assistance schemes for bike-to-work programs, according to the European Cyclists’ Federation.

Final Thoughts

Paying people to bike to work is a win-win proposition for governments, workplaces, and individuals alike. Not only does it promote healthier lifestyles and reduce environmental impact, but it also eases traffic congestion, stimulates economies, and enhances overall well-being. By investing in cycling infrastructure and offering financial incentives, societies can pave the way for a more sustainable and enjoyable future of commuting. So, why wait? It’s time to pedal our way towards a brighter tomorrow.