Cycling for Change: Inspiring a Greener Future with 690 KM

The number 690 might seem random, but it holds a deep connection to environmental protection. No, it’s not the number of trees cut down to make a stack of paper, nor the number of glaciers melting annually. Instead, it’s something much closer to our daily lives: it’s the average distance a person needs to ride a bicycle to make it carbon neutral.

The concept of 690 was originally proposed by David Wang, the founder and owner of Brook and Breeze, a bike shop in Shanghai. Inspired by this idea, I decided to share it with a wider audience, leading to the creation of this website.

Climate change can often feel detached from our everyday lives. In Shanghai, its effects may not be immediately obvious. While there are no melting glaciers here, the climate is undeniably getting hotter. Ten years ago, the highest summer temperature was 37 degrees Celsius (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit). Now, temperatures regularly reach and even surpass 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). Additionally, weather patterns are becoming increasingly erratic. Just yesterday, August 3, 2024, parts of Shanghai experienced a hailstorm, an unusual event for the middle of summer. In nearby areas, severe weather events induced by climate change have caused devastating floods, with the situation worsening each year. These events are clear evidence of climate change, and they will undoubtedly escalate if no action is taken.

Taking action is not difficult. Transportation, a major polluting sector closely tied to our daily lives, accounts for 15% of global greenhouse gas emissions (WHO, 2021), with the primary source being motor vehicle tailpipe emissions. A simple way to reduce these emissions is to ride a bicycle. Our calculations show that by riding a bicycle for an average of 690 kilometers (details in another link), you can offset the emissions produced during its manufacture, making your bike carbon neutral. 

690 is more than just a number; it’s a symbol. By participating in the 690 initiative, you’re not only adopting a more sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle, but you’re also joining a large community dedicated to preserving and protecting the environment. 690 represents your commitment to sustainability. Join me and start riding today.