Why not leave the car at home this September and sign-up to Northern Ireland’s Active Travel Challenge, for a cleaner, healthier and more environmentally friendly way to get around.
The Active Travel Challenge aims to inspire people to adopt greener travel options that will prioritise their health and wellbeing and support Northern Irelands ‘green’ economic recovery and progress towards a low-carbon future. This year the challenge brings a huge opportunity for people to change their travel habits for the better and chose to walk, cycle, take public transport or a combination, helping them stay physically active and supporting their mental wellbeing. These steps will help accelerate action on climate, improve local air quality and create a much better quality of life for all.
The joint initiative has been championed by the Department for Infrastructure, Public Health Agency, Translink, Sustrans, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, and Belfast City Council. It is part of a collaborative drive to inspire people to adopt greener travel options that will prioritise their health and wellbeing and support Northern Irelands ‘green’ economic recovery and progress towards a low-carbon future.
Challenge registration is free, and participants can log their ‘active travel’ journeys online throughout September, with a different theme each week of the month and a range of prizes and incentives up for grabs, including shopping vouchers and Translink tickets.
Infrastructure Minister Nichola Mallon said: “Tackling the climate crisis must be a priority for everyone. The Active Travel challenge encourages us all to think differently about how we travel and how we can all contribute towards a low-carbon future. I am delighted that my Department is working in partnership with other agencies to support this challenge. Together we can make a real difference. I would encourage everyone to take part, leave the car at home this September and consider walking, wheeling, cycling or using public transport for everyday journeys if you can. Not only will you contribute to cutting down on traffic congestion, reducing air pollution and improving the quality of life for us all but travelling more actively will also improve your physical and mental health and wellbeing.”
Find out more about the Active Travel Challenge and how to register on the website.
Keep up-to-date with all the latest ATC action on social media using #GetMeActiveNI.
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