“Bicycling is a big part of the future. It has to be. There’s something wrong with a society that drives a car to workout in a gym.” – Bill Nye the Science Guy

At Taiga Company, we use cycling as a means to promote sustainability.  When people ride bikes, good things happen.  Why?  Because bike commuting is a win-win for both businesses and individuals looking to reduce costs, embrace eco awareness, and adhere to business and personal sustainability programs.  It seems that most people think of bikes as recreation but in our sustainability consulting practice, we encourage employers and workers to consider cycling as alternative transportation as well as part of a sustainable business strategy.  

We also view it as a means to connect with nature as a source of inspiration for eco action.  Exploring the great outdoors offers a chance to move at life’s natural pace, where time disappears, no one is bored, and exploration turns into amazing adventure.   More so, the richness of the outdoors is stimulating and helps to connect eco actions taken at home to the natural resources those actions are aimed to protect and preserve. 

As I embark on the 6th and final stage of the endurance mountain bike event, The Breck Epic, I have to agree with Grant Petersen, “Think of bicycles as rideable art that can just about save the world.” The reward of riding my bike through breathtaking views in Breckenridge, Colorado and participating in an event committed to sustainability concepts and values  of waste reduction, environmental stewardship, and respect of natural resources has been immensely fulfilling.  

While you may not have aspirations to pedal your bike 240 miles in 6 Days at 9,000' at The Breck Epic, you may have desires to reduce your carbon footprint, live green, and make a positive impact in your life, community and business.  Offering a few post as reading suggestions, we hope you'll find eco inspiration from our two wheeled friends: 

• Top 10 Benefits of Bicycle Commuting Programs for Businesses
• 10 Reasons to Bike Commute to Work
• The Triple Bottom Line of Green Cycling: Good for You, Good for Community, Good for the Economy
• The Zen of Riding a Bike Saves You Peace of Mind, Health, and Nature
• Two Wheeled Friends - Are you One of them?

Why not build a better community by bike riding? Connect with people and places, enjoy the freedom only a bike brings, and create a bicycling legacy for your family.  Bicycling significantly reduces transportation emissions while also reducing traffic congestion and the need for petroleum.  Play with the idea - pedal down a new path!

Here's a look at today's final course profile.  Interested in learning more about the race?  Check it out here.