As traffic congestion and pollution choke our cities, the urgency for sustainable transport solutions grows by the day. But amidst these challenges, something remarkable is happening: communities are coming together to champion greener, more inclusive ways to move people and goods.
From the Sunshine Coast to British Columbia’s bustling cities, grassroots initiatives are leading the charge toward a sustainable future. movmi has had the privilege of working with several such inspiring organizations, including the BC Cycling Coalition, TRAC, Island Pathways, Our Community Bikes and BEST Mobility.
Let’s explore how these initiatives are helping to create a more sustainable future and how we can play a role in this transformation.
Article Contents
- The Power of Cycling Advocacy Groups
- Community-Led Projects: Creating Local Change
- How we work with advocacy groups to promote sustainable transport
Sustainable Transport: The Pivotal Role of Local Initiatives and Advocacy Groups
The Power of Cycling Advocacy Groups
Cycling advocacy groups are at the forefront of promoting sustainable transport. These organizations are dedicated to making cycling a safe, accessible, and popular mode of transportation. By working with local governments, urban planners, and businesses, they help create bike-friendly infrastructure, organize community events, and offer educational programs.
Among these impactful organizations include the BC Cycling Coalition. This organization advocates for safer, more inclusive cycling infrastructure across British Columbia, promoting the economic, environmental, and health benefits of cycling. A few of their cycling advocacy campaigns and key initiatives include:
- Safe Passing: 1-metre minimum passing distance is now the law in B.C: Until 2024, BC didn’t have a law protecting people walking, cycling, or using other micro-mobility modes when passed by cars. BCCC worked with safe streets advocates around the province to change this in Spring 2024 as part of a longer-term effort to reform the Motor Vehicle Act.
- Slower Speeds: Research has shown that when motor vehicles are traveling at speeds greater than 40 km/h, both drivers and pedestrians are more likely to make mistakes judging the time required to stop or cross the street safely. The BCCC are working with government agencies on various initiatives to increase funding for traffic calming and implement lower speed limits.
Cycle Tourism: The BCCC are working to multiply active transportation options outside of cities. Better cycling facilities across British Columbia can appeal to international audiences coming to experience our spectacular outdoors, Aboriginal and coastal communities, wineries and historical sites, and world-renowned recreational and sporting events. BCCC is working with our member organizations across the province and have identified opportunities to improve cycling for better economic performance for our destination marketing regions.
movmi also proudly co-hosted last year’s BCCC’s Active Transportation Summit, bringing together experts, policymakers, and advocates to advance cycling and active transportation solutions. The summit is currently seeking a host city for its 2025 event. If your city would like to be considered, please reach out to us at info@movmi.net. If you’d like to know about the AT Summit check out the short video below.
Another group that needs to be highlighted is Island Pathways. A key advocate for safe and accessible active transportation options on Salt Spring Island, promoting better regional connectivity and collaborating with local groups and agencies to achieve its goals. The organization relies on dedicated volunteers for critical tasks, including pathway planning and construction, as well as unique initiatives such as the Velo Village event in 2012.
Accomplishments so far:
- Pathway Development: Island Pathways has constructed nearly $1 million in community-owned pathways in the Ganges Village area, with local taxpayers contributing only $250,000.
- Enhancing Public Spaces: Volunteers have installed seven hand-crafted benches along these pathways, created by local craftsman Donald McLennan.
- Improving Navigation: Maps produced by Island Pathways are featured on BC Ferries vessels traveling to Salt Spring Island and in seven kiosks across the island.
- Youth Helmet Program: The organization has provided over 700 elementary school students with high-quality, well-fitted bicycle helmets at a cost of $10 each, with the remainder funded by generous donors.
- Bike Infrastructure Expansion: Island Pathways has supported the installation of 36 bike racks throughout the island.
- Community Engagement: The organization conducts surveys, hosts special events, publishes educational materials, and advocates for enhanced active transportation infrastructure and safety measures.
Our Community Bikes (OCB) is a Vancouver-based non-profit organization dedicated to promoting cycling through education, access, and community engagement. Operating in a city with high rent prices, OCB faces financial challenges but continues to thrive by securing private donations and grants, often collaborating with similar nonprofits like Kickstand and Bike Kitchen to deliver community and advocacy initiatives.
Key Initiatives:
- Gear Up Program: A free 13-week course that equips youth aged 15 to 30 with the skills, certification, and employer connections necessary to work as bike mechanics. This program, delivered year-round in partnership with YWCA Metro Vancouver, provides marginalized groups with a pathway into the cycling industry.
- Pedals for the People: A huge donation programme, where donated bicycles are refurbished and provided to individuals in the local community who could not otherwise afford them.
- Community Engagement: OCB emphasizes the importance of mechanical training and access programming made by and for equity-deserving groups, recognizing that gaining mechanical skills requires continuous practice and community support. By fostering a network of cyclists interested in mechanics, OCB helps socially excluded individuals gain experience and integrate into the cycling community
"We work with homeless shelters, social workers, youth projects and others to provide this service (Pedals for the People), directly giving away around 100 bikes each year, as well as many more through other organisations...”
Community-Led Projects: Creating Local Change
One of the most effective ways to promote sustainable transport is through community-led projects. These initiatives harness local knowledge and passion to create tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of the community. From creating neighborhood electric vehicle charging stations to launching micromobility hubs and cycling schemes, these projects are driving the shift toward sustainable transportation.
One group that focuses on creating community-led projects is Transportation Choices Sunshine Coast (TraC). It is a member-based group of enthusiastic individuals working to create more sustainable cycling, pedestrian, and transit alternatives to single-occupancy car use in their communities. Some of their projects include:
- Connect the Coast
TraC’s flagship project aims to develop an All Ages and Abilities (AAA) multi-use path along the Sunshine Coast’s Highway 101 corridor. This initiative enhances safety, reduces emissions, and promotes active transportation through extensive planning and design reports, funded by grants and community support. - Bicycle Valet Service
A volunteer-run service that provides secure bike parking at events, encouraging attendees to cycle and reducing traffic congestion. The valet operates like a coat-check, offering a safe, convenient option for cyclists during events. - GoByBike Week
This initiative promotes cycling for commuting, errands, and recreation, with activities like monthly road sweeping to improve safety. It inspires community members to adopt cycling as a sustainable mode of transport. - Slow Food Cycle
A group ride connecting cyclists with local food producers, blending sustainability with support for local agriculture. This event highlights the joy of cycling and the region’s culinary culture. - NDVR to Ride
A bike skills program for at-risk youth in grades 5-7, fostering confidence and cycling proficiency. Sponsored by TraC, it aims to create positive experiences and encourage active transportation among youth.
Another impactful community-led organization is BEST Mobility (Better Environmentally Sound Transportation). Since 1991, BEST has developed innovative programs to promote mobility justice by removing barriers to active, low-carbon, and green transportation options such as cycling, walking, transit, seniors’ mobility, and car-sharing. Their mission is rooted in the belief that access to sustainable travel options helps people connect with their communities and enhances overall participation.
Key Programs:
- Living Streets: This program promotes the benefits of walking while identifying opportunities for public engagement in creating walkable communities. BEST shares knowledge through communications, events, and engagement with municipal and provincial stakeholders to improve pedestrian accessibility.
- The Bike Valet: A free, secure bike parking service offered at events, functioning like a coat-check for bikes. Cyclists drop off their bikes, receive a claim stub, and enjoy their event, knowing their bikes are safely stored.
- Seniors on the Move: This initiative supports seniors and their families in transitioning from driving to alternative transportation options, such as public transit, shuttle services, or volunteer driving programs, making the process less daunting.
- Walk30 Challenge: A 30-day walking competition designed to inspire individuals and communities to build daily walking habits. Participants track their walking time, with prizes awarded to the top municipalities, organizations, and individuals who achieve the most minutes walked. This initiative fosters health, wellness, and community connections while encouraging sustainable transport habits.
How We Work with Advocacy Groups to Promote Sustainable Transport
Developing sustainable transport initiatives requires thoughtful planning, collaboration, and expertise. Consulting agencies often serve as valuable partners for businesses and local governments, helping to design and implement transport solutions that meet specific community needs. With experience in best practices, access to resources, and insights from successful projects, consultants provide practical support to ensure these initiatives succeed.
The team at movmi, are more than consultants—we are passionate advocates for sustainable transportation. Our work often involves partnering with advocacy groups to amplify their efforts, combining on-the-ground expertise with a shared vision for greener, more inclusive mobility systems. Through collaboration with local organizations, we aim to create transport networks that not only function efficiently but also align with the unique needs of communities.
A few ways in which we can help:
- Feasibility Studies: Evaluating transport options with a focus on community impact and sustainability goals.
- Project Implementation: Supporting initiatives from initial planning through to execution, ensuring seamless and practical solutions.
- Building Partnerships: Bridging connections between governments, businesses, and advocacy groups to foster long-term collaboration.
movmi has a track record of working with advocacy groups to secure grants and other funding opportunities based on the expertise and services we provide. What sets us apart is our integration of Value, Inclusion, Belonging, and Equity (VIBE) into every aspect of our work. Using the VIBE Checklist, we identify gaps, create tailored strategies, and implement practical solutions that prioritize equity and belonging.
To learn more about our approach, download our free VIBE Checklist and explore how we design transportation systems that truly work for everyone.
The shift toward sustainable transport is gaining momentum, driven by the efforts of local communities, advocacy groups, and forward-thinking businesses. By supporting and participating in these initiatives, we can all play a role in building a cleaner, more sustainable future. Whether you’re a local government, a business owner, or a community member, there are countless ways to get involved. If you’re ready to make a difference, consider partnering with a consultant to bring your vision of sustainable transport to life.