I took up a challenge from a climate charity – and suddenly my daughter and I were gliding past canals instead of sitting in traffic, says Funmi Shonibare
I took up a challenge from a climate charity – and suddenly my daughter and I were gliding past canals instead of sitting in traffic
’ve always been a driver at heart. I passed my test when I was 19, and I’ve been behind the wheel for most journeys since. After becoming a parent eight years ago, I became even more dependent on my car, thinking that it meant security for me and my child, almost like driving was my duty. I couldn’t imagine a world where I didn’t get around on four wheels, but that all changed when I tried going car-free.to see what it would be like to go without my car for three weeks.
I switched my car for an electric family bike. Straight away, I enjoyed having a break from driving, especially on the school run. What was once an unpredictable journey often stuck in traffic was now a fun ride along the marshes and the canal. Suddenly the low traffic neighbourhoods and school streets made my journey faster rather than frustrating. And I could see that my daughter loved every moment of it, which gave me the fuel I needed to know that we were doing the right thing.
On balance, the benefits outweighed the downsides. I felt myself getting fitter. I didn’t need to think about going for a walk or going to the gym because I was getting exercise during my commute. I saved a bit of money every week, which was also the case for the majority of us who took part in this trial., up to £53 a week. And as the price at the pumps looks set to shoot past £2 a litre, the savings will only stack up longer term.
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