AN ELECTRIC cargo bike did all the heavy lifting at a litter pick in Chelmsley Wood.
With a carrying capacity of 900 litres or 100kg of weight, the e-cargo bike proved to be a useful and eco-friendly addition for the event hosted by The Clean and Green Local Community Group.
The e-cargo bike, branded in ‘Your Future Solihull’ colours, is available free of charge to businesses and community groups on a trial basis.
The scheme is part of Solihull Council’s commitment to active travel, clean air, carbon reduction and congestion relief.
Paul Pablo Sultana from The Clean and Green Local Community Group said: “During our most recent get-together we used the bike as a mobile litter picking hub.
“Thanks to its huge carrying capacity, we could comfortably carry all of the litter picking equipment for our volunteers.
“It can also be used to transport large bags of rubbish as we sweep the area, ready to drop off at the bins once we’re done.”
Councillor Andy Mackiewicz, cabinet member for Climate Change, Planning and Housing at Solihull Council, said: “It’s brilliant to see the e-cargo bike being used in such a positive way by the community in Chelmsley Wood.
“Not only did it prove to be an ideal vehicle to assist the litter pickers, the event raised awareness of its potential to be a practical eco-friendly solution as opposed to using a traditional combustion engine van to carry the litter picking equipment.
“I strongly encourage interested businesses and groups to get in contact with the team and explore how the e-cargo bike can reduce unnecessary car and van journeys in your community.”
If your business or community group is interested in loaning a bike or wants to find out more, get in touch with the sustainable travel team at [email protected]
