This month’s national 2Walk&Cycle conference will explore future transport options in a world which is growing more congested every day.

It is the first time that both the walking and cycling sectors have been invited to attend a single conference, including industry professionals, researchers, Council and government officials, politicians, and advocates.

Conference convenor Glen Koorey says “The world is struggling to come to grips with the need to preserve its fuel supplies and reduce pollution of the atmosphere. This year’s conference will focus on the need to develop viable and sustainable walking and cycling options for the future.”

Glen Koorey says “Both walking and cycling can provide economic and healthy travel options for New Zealanders and, with 70 speakers, the conference will explore many different options which will further the aim of getting more people onto bikes or walking as a normal part of their daily lives.”

Conference key note speakers include:

• Billie Giles-Corti the director of the McCaughey Centre Melbourne: the VicHealth Centre for the Promotion of Mental Health and Community Well Being

• Roger Geller has been Portland, Oregon’s Bicycle coordinator since 2000 and has been with the city’s Bicycle Program since 1994

• Nigel Latta is a well known New Zealand psychologist, author and television presenter. Nigel has worked with literally thousands of families over the past 17 years

• Alistair Woodward is the head of the School of Population Health at Auckland University. He believes urban transport systems need to change to improve health, reduce pollution and increase energy efficiency.

The conference will include the announcement of the winners of the 2011/12 CAN Cycle Friendly and the LSA Golden Foot awards. Nine awards will be handed out, including the first ever joint award for the Best Walking/Cycling project.

The theme of the 2Walk&Cycle conference is ‘Creating Smarter Connections’ and will be held at the Hawke’s Bay Opera House, Hastings from February 22nd to 24th 2012.