By Erin Fisher
It’ s a small action, repeated consistently, that contributes to a cleaner local environment, which makes a positive impact of the area around me. Additionally, it helps that the route itself is genuinely beautiful.
Cycling to Keele
Health, cost & environmental benefits
By Erin Fisher
MSc Prosthetics and Orthotics Masters student
Cycling from Newcastle has become one of the most sustainable and rewarding parts of my routine. I started cycling last year as a simple attempt to save money on bus fares, but it has quickly become a habit that supports my health, my finances and, in its own small way, the planet. The shift was practical at first- short car journeys are notoriously inefficient, producing higher emissions per mile and putting unnecessary strain on my car. Buses, while better, still add up in both cost and carbon footprint. Cycling offered a cleaner, cheaper alternative, and once I committed to it, the benefits became impossible to ignore.
The 30 minute ride each way has had a noticeable effect on my wellbeing. It’ s long enough to elevate my heart rate and build strength, but gentle enough to slot naturally into my day.
I arrive on campus energised, focused, and already feeling like I’ ve done something positive before lectures even begin. A few of my course mates have joined me now, making the commute a social ritual too.
Environmentally, the impact feels meaningful. Replacing a daily motorised journey with a bike ride cuts emissions entirely, reduces congestion on the roads into Keele, and aligns with the sustainability values I try and maintain in my daily life.
The cycle path through Silverdale offers a steady incline, far nicer than the steep road up to Keele campus, and the ride home is a smooth, easy descent. I would encourage anyone who can to give cycling to Keele a go, it’ s sustainable and has a massive impact on your health and wellbeing.
It’ s a small action, repeated consistently, that contributes to a cleaner local environment, which makes a positive impact of the area around me. Additionally, it helps that the route itself is genuinely beautiful.
5