Buying locally on foot and on bike!

With environmental protection and a sustainable economic development as amindset, Équiterre, in collaboration with the GRAME and the CLD-Lachine, launched in 2009, the campaign « Je m'active à Lachine ».Because of its resounding success, the project is back for a third year.

Promoting active and collective transport, as well as buying locally, the campaign has culminated in 2010 with the second edition of the family bicycle rally. There is no rally this summer, but many activities are still planned to promote active and collective transport.

Why get active in Lachine?

For your health…

The inactivity and a sedentary lifestyle touch over half of North-Americans. Did you know that 30 minutes of physical activity a day will reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by 50%.


For the environment…

Cars are responsible for 49% of green house gas emissions, which are causing climactic changes. Walking or biking has the double advantage of being beneficial for the environment and ourselves.


For a better quality of life…

Active transport means less cars on the road therefore less traffic, less stress, more tranquility.  All in all; A winning combination.


For a more dynamic neighbourhood…

Local shops of Lachine offer customer-friendly services. Buying locally creates jobs, increases local investment and diversifies the services being offered. Buying locally also improves the quality of life in the neighbourhood which in turn helps retain families, happy to grow in a safe neighbourhood.


To save money…

According to a study from the CAA, owning a car costs between $9 400 and $12 400 a year on average (for 18 000 km/year). Add up all the time lost in traffic jams and you will soon be tempted by the public transportation system combined with active transportation only cost $3 600 annually!

Contrary to popular belief, going to the shopping mall does not create substantial savings.  According to the ‘‘Groupe de recherche en Consommation’’, a shopping cart containing 20 articles used on a daily basis the savings are only $1,15. While the travelling cost associated from using a car is around $5!


To save time…

By taking a bike you will avoid looking around for a parking space, wait in traffic jams, and allow for alternative paths to be used, the bike is the fastest transportation option for distances under 5 km. It is also cheaper and greener!