Cycling for life

Residents of Quito, Ecuador, are pedaling their way to a healthier future, thanks in part to Fundación Biciacción, which is using its Web site to promote riding bicycles as an alternative to driving cars.

The city is plagued by heavy traffic, which is contributing to concerns about air quality in some areas. On its Web site, the foundation highlights different programs that encourage people to ride their bicycles to live a healthier lifestyle and relieve traffic congestion and pollution.

The programs include “Pedal Fridays,” a Friday designated for a group ride around the city. Another event publicized on the site, “50 Sundays, 50 Bike Rides,” is celebrating the 50th bike ride since the event began in April 2002. On each ride, bicyclists go on a journey to churches, museums, plazas and parks in colonial Quito.

Fundación Biciacción recently received an award from the Corporation for the Improvement of Air in Quito (Corpaire) and the Nature Foundation for its efforts to promote bicycle riding and improve the quality of life for Quito’s citizens.

www.biciaccion.org