May marks two important observances that go hand in hand: Clean Air Month and National Bike Month. We’re excited to celebrate both as part of our ongoing mission to improve air quality across the region. These two initiatives remind us that the choices we make every day, how we commute, how we travel, and how we care for our environment have a direct impact on the air we breathe.
Why Clean Air Matters
Clean air is essential for a healthy lifestyle and a sustainable future. Poor air quality can affect everyone, especially children, older adults, and individuals with respiratory conditions like asthma. During the warmer months, high ozone levels can trigger health problems and reduce overall quality of life. Fortunately, there are simple steps we can take to help clear the air, and it starts with rethinking our daily habits.
Biking for Better Air
That's where National Bike Month comes in. Bicycling is not only a great form of exercise, it’s also one of the cleanest, most energy-efficient ways to get around. Every mile traveled by bike instead of by car helps reduce emissions, lessen traffic congestion, and improve our air quality.
Replacing just a few short car trips each week with a bike ride can make a measurable difference. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, short trips of less than three miles are the most polluting because engines don't have time to warm up and run efficiently. Swapping those drives for bike rides is a small change that adds up quickly.
How You Can Get Involved
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, there are plenty of ways to participate in Bike Month and support clean air in May:
- Join a local bike event: Cities across North Texas are hosting group rides, bike safety workshops, and community celebrations throughout the month.
- Bike to Work Day (May 16): If feasible, celebrate by commuting on two wheels. If you’re working from home, try biking to lunch, to run errands, or to a local park for a breath of fresh air.
- Start a biking challenge: Team up with friends, family, or coworkers to see who can bike the most miles in May.
- Use Try Parking It: Try Parking It is a free resource for finding travel options like carpool, vanpool, and transit in North Central Texas. You can also track your trips, including biking, walking, and telecommuting, to earn instant rewards.
- Share your ride: Post photos of your bike rides on social media using #BikeMonth and #AirNTX to inspire others.
Clean Air Month and Bike Month are the perfect time to recommit to clean air habits. If biking isn’t an option every day, consider carpooling, taking public transportation, or combining errands into one trip. Every action counts.
As we move into summer, let's take advantage of the warm weather and longer days to choose cleaner, healthier transportation options. Together, we can pedal toward a future with cleaner skies and healthier communities.