Chapter 1 Introduction

Purpose – This chapter provides an introduction to the bicycle as a means of transport and sustainability as a development concept. It discusses the three pillars of sustainability and introduces the subsequent chapters in the book.

Approach – The chapter takes a historical view of the development of the bicycle and sustainability and provides a contemporary view of the relation between the bicycle and society, the environment and the economy.

Findings – The chapter provides an overview of the discussions to be presented in the subsequent chapters and, through a resumé of each chapter, the reader is presented with a comprehensive context in which to read each individual chapter.

Implications – While the implications are preliminary on the basis that the arguments have not been fully expounded, it is suggested that cycling needs a well-defined system in which to operate, and that system needs to be closely allied to the needs of the user at the human scale.