It is a lesson all countries around the world would do well to emulate. Perhaps, the reasons for Zimbabwe's bicycle revolution are different. Blame it on an economic downturn and hyperinflation, but when the people are getting knocked about by a rapidly depreciating currency, old age remedies are proving to be the succor.

Zimbabwe’s lesson teaches us that if all of us adopt cycling in a more involved manner much of our oil dependence can be curtailed. In Zimbabwe, bicycles are back on the roads. A world record inflation of 11.2 million percent - and rising - Zimbabweans have to stretch their already meager salaries. And the petrol bill has become a luxury now. It might be difficult for us to comprehend but the average monthly income of a Zimbabwean has now reduced to anything between $3 - $10 U.S. That's just about enough to buy three loaves of bread or pay for a week's transport costs. The bicycle now seems to be riding to the rescue of ordinary Zimbabweans.



If their is a silver lining for the environment in the dark clouds of this turmoil, it is this. Of course, bicycling now is more of a forced activity in the country. And it is a country which does not have dedicated tracks for pedaling. Cyclists have to share space with motorists giving rise to higher risks of accidents.

Here the central government needs to invest in constructing specialized cycle tracks that are friendly to bicyclists. To fully capitalize on the economic and environmental benefits of this trend there is also need for social awareness programs that inform people about the environmental benefits of bicycling in addition to the obvious and direct benefit of saving money.

These environmentally friendly initiatives need to go beyond vagueness and actually show that the economic impact can improve people's lives and livelihoods. Unless and until the direct benefits are not highlighted widespread adoption will not seep into daily practice.

The success of any environmental program also hinges on its support from both sexes. Now it's only the men...many women are not willing to take up bicycling. Perhaps women are reluctant to expend the high energy levels required to cycle, or perhaps they are more concerned with safety issues. What this means in the bigger picture is that environmentally friendly strategies need to be gender sensitive in order to have a wider societal appeal. Policy makers also need to take note of gender disparities when environmental frameworks are being worked on.

The lessons for Zimbabwe are lessons for the entire world. Countries like China and India have a large  population but poor infrastructure to support it. Perhaps a better cognizance of economics and environment can be drawn from the serendipitous trend in Zimbabwe. Then we will have not only an environmentally sensitive society less dependent on oil but also a healthier one. Thanks to the humble bicycle.

Source: Celsias
Image: Flickr.com