Cyclists use more energy than drivers

People who cycle to work could be using up more of the earth's energy supply than those who drive, according to research at Exeter University. David Coley, a research fellow at the centre for energy and the environment, has already annoyed vegetarians by showing that eating vegetables can be more of a drain on resources than eating meat because of modern food production methods. Now he says building and repairing cycle routes increases the amount of the pollutant tarmac that is produced. In addition, those walking or cycling to work are also likely to consume more food and hence the energy needed to produce it.