CBC Ottawa is adding a bit pedal power to its fleet.

A informal green committee came up with the idea of using bicycles to cover local stories. The employees pitched the idea, and it was quickly approved. “The best part about this project is that the reporters themselves came up with the idea and they’re really excited about it,” Rob Renaud, CBC Ottawa’s managing director said.

Alistair Steele, a reporter in Ottawa, said using the bicycles to cover stories offers more than the obvious environmental benefits. “we’re more visible, and I think we’re going to get stories that we wouldn’t have got enclosed in our cars. We’re more approachable.”

Steele also said the option of avoiding traffic jams and transit is also a plus. “People have enjoyed it. Reporters have come back and said ‘wow, what a nice ride.’ You never hear reporters say that when they take transit or a taxi,” he said.

Giacomo Panico, an assignment editor in Ottawa said the bikes are economical and fast, “we can see reduced costs, whether it be for taxi expenses, or parking costs, or tickets. We also have the benefit of sometimes getting to the story faster,” Panico said, “and the bikes don’t have a maintenance costs.”

It’s not for every story. It’s an option. It’s a good tool to have,” Panico said, “We can act as an icebreaker with the public, and there is the ecological benefit.”

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