As part of its integrated approach to transport systems, the city has invested in infrastructure that makes it easier and safer to travel by bike. Measures include designated lanes and traffic lights, bicycle bridges and bike parking facilities. Copenhagen’s Eco-Metropolis vision statement sets a goal of 50% home-to-work trips by bicycle by 2015. This increase in cycling translates to a potential reduction of 80,000 tonnes per year in CO2 vehicle-related emissions.

A recent inititiave is the green cycle routes scheme, a system of commuter bike corridors beside and through parks and green spaces. About one third completed, the aim is to provide 21 routes covering 110km.

Copenhagen has also been a global pioneer in the development of free public bike systems. The city's 2,500 City Bikes are available in a 9 sq km city-centre area for a returnable deposit, and can be collected and dropped off at any of the 110 designated points.

Cycling is a passion for the Danes and Copenhagen has a long history of association with bicycles. Taking averaged statistics, every Dane cycles more than 1km every day, and 9 out of 10 people own a bicycle. About half a million bikes are bought each year in Denmark — about the same figure as the population of Copenhagen.

In 2010, the Discovery Channel's environmental website TreeHugger voted Copenhagen the world's Best City for Cyclists in its transportation category, just one indication of the success of the approach taken by the city ..... next >