The European Parliament has proposed making 2024 the “European Year of Cycling,” calling for a strategy to double the distance covered by cyclists by 2030.
This was relayed on Thursday to the Commission in a resolution on developing a strategy for such an ambitious feat.
In a non-binding resolution, the MEPs have called on the Commission and Member States to support the production of bicycles and components “made in Europe.” They are also encouraging Member States to reduce VAT rates on the supply, leasing and repair of bicycles and electric bikes.
The text urges Member States and local authorities to “significantly” increase the construction of separate cycling infrastructures.
It also encourages the integration of affordable bicycle and electric bike sharing systems into their mobility plans and to promote cycling for the last mile in urban hubs. The inclusion of bikes on trains has also been highlighted.
According to the parliamentarians, the cycling ecosystem already accounts for more than 1,000 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and generates one million jobs in the EU. These figures could double by 2030, they predict.
