Bring ‘A Touch of Dutch’ to your Streets!
27 October 2023With an average of 1.3 bicycles per inhabitant and over 37,000 kilometers of dedicated cycle paths, cycling has become an integral part of Dutch culture and identity. In an effort to share this Dutch way of life with the world and promote sustainable mobility, the Netherlands Board of Tourism & Conventions (NBTC) has introduced a Cycling Lifestyle AI tool. Using the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Google Streetview, and insights from Dutch cycling experts, this innovative tool enables people across the globe to transform their streets into green, cycling-friendly environments.
Cycling Lifestyle AI Tool: The Dutch Touch
Developed by a team that includes Dutch Cycling Embassy network participants Horizons and Humankind, the Cycling Lifestyle AI tool is a digital creation that allows users to visualize and transform any street in the world into a green and cycling-friendly environment. The tool merges technology and expertise to bring the Dutch cycling experience to people’s doorsteps.
How Does It Work?
The magic behind the Cycling Lifestyle AI tool lies in the fusion of AI, Google Streetview, and knowledge from Dutch cycling experts. Here’s how it works:
- AI Algorithms: Cutting-edge AI algorithms analyze the user’s street or location, identifying various elements such as roads, buildings, and vegetation.
- Dutch Cycling Expertise: Dutch cycling experts provide insights into creating a cycling-friendly environment. They share their knowledge on cycle path layouts, road markings, traffic management, and greenery.
- Digital Transformation: Using this data, the tool digitally transforms the street or location into a Dutch-style cycling environment. The result is a scenic, eco-friendly street with bike lanes and lush greenery.
At a time when climate change is a pressing global concern, cycling plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable and healthy living. The Netherlands’ Cycling Lifestyle campaign encourages people to contemplate the advantages of greener and healthier environments. By switching from cars to bicycles, individuals can reduce carbon dioxide emissions, combat climate change, and enhance overall air quality.
Moreover, regular cycling can significantly improve public health. Research indicates that it can extend life expectancy by 3 to 14 months and reduce the risk of severe health issues such as cardiovascular diseases. This reinforces the idea that adopting a cycling lifestyle is not only sustainable mode of transportation but also contributes to personal well-being.
Curious to see how your own street can be with a Touch of Dutch? Try it out: www.dutchcyclinglifestyle.com.
In the media:
https://www.londonlive.co.uk/news/london-encouraged-to-go-dutch/
