Bike Week 2025: Pedalling towards health – for us and the planet

During Bike Week (9-15 June), Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes Integrated Care Board (ICB) is encouraging residents to take to two wheels – for better health and a greener Earth.

Organised by Cycling UK, Bike Week celebrates the benefits of cycling and aims to inspire more people to get on their bikes. The ICB is highlighting how swapping the car for a bike, even once or twice a week, can make a significant difference to both personal wellbeing and the environment.

Cycling is an easy, fun and social way to get around, whether it’s part of your daily commute, a form of exercise, or simply a chance to enjoy the outdoors. But the benefits go far beyond convenience.

Regular cycling can significantly reduce the risk of major illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. It can also lower the risk of early death by up to 30%. In addition, cycling supports better mental wellbeing and may help reduce the risk of neurological conditions such as dementia later in life.

What’s good for people’s health is good for the environment, too. Choosing to cycle instead of driving helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, while also easing congestion on our roads. And research shows that cyclists are often exposed to less air pollution than drivers stuck in traffic.

Dr Tim Simmance, Associate Director of Sustainability and Growth at the ICB, said:

“Cycling is a simple yet powerful step toward a healthier, sustainable future. Every mile cycled supports cardiovascular health, boosts mental wellbeing, and reduces the risk of a range of physical, mental and neurological conditions.

“Cycling instead of driving cuts carbon emissions, eases congestion, and improves air quality, which in turn supports a healthier and cleaner environment. Building stronger, healthier communities, cycling is a win for residents in Bedfordshire, Luton and Milton Keynes – and a win for the planet.”

The ICB supports initiatives that enable active travel across the region and is working with local authorities to promote safe cycling infrastructure and encourage behavioural change. According to Cycling UK, if everyone in the UK cycled to work just once a week, it would save nearly 9,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions – the equivalent of taking more than 1,900 cars off the road annually.

For tips on getting started, safety advice, and events, visit www.cyclinguk.org/bikeweek.