Pedals or Vans

Why is it that Iceland is frequently ahead of the curve when it comes to sensible solutions to an ever more troubling planet? Geothermal and district heating systems starting from the 1940’s, sustainable quota systems for the limited resources, alternative fuel research and application, innovative tax restructuring, and general long term thinking in all manner of major decisions. Some of these choices are up for debate but overall I like what I see in many areas.

One small idea that saw little fanfare but has proven to make a difference is the bicycle. Students riding a bicycle to school. Imagine that, an old idea that was certainly common back in my day has made a comeback. Instead of grandiose announcements and mega dollar research with charts and numbers they simply encouraged and made practical the use of bicycles. And it works, with up to half the students riding to school I can imagine how much of a difference that makes. I am amazed at how many idling vans I see every morning and afternoon at my own children’s school. I hold my nose as I walk past the long lines of vehicles. I know that not all of these children can walk to school but many of them can and I’ve never seen a bicycle at the school. With the weather in Iceland being some of the harshest anywhere I can’t see enough reasons why we don’t do the same over here. At least a few bicycles would make me happier.