Amsterdam is officially a cyclist’s paradise, ranking number one for the second year running as the most bike-friendly city in the world, according to the American travel agency Virgin Travel.
About 40% of all commutes in Amsterdam are made by bike, making it an integral part of Amsterdam culture. It’s just one of a number of initiatives that continue to promote the city’s green credentials.
New builds in Amsterdam are increasingly prioritising sustainability. For example, any new project that’s developed around the Zuidas, a new business area in the south of the city, must now satisfy strict sustainability criteria.
The City of Amsterdam has also announced that by mid-2015, all new construction works in the city must be energy neutral. The rally for eco-change hasn’t gone unnoticed, with Amsterdam recently being nominated for the prestigious title of Green Capital of Europe 2010.
The city has developed a strong cycling culture that promotes a healthier, more active lifestyle for its residents including the expat community. Amsterdam also has an excellent network of cycle routes. This means less time spent commuting, and more time enjoying what the city has to offer.