SOUTH Korea, the land of Hyundai and Kia, is embarking on a bold initiative which is intended to reduce harmful pollutants in the environment while saving on its energy consumption bill.

Nubija, a public bicycle rental system, is gaining traction in south-eastern city of Changwon.

The project, started in 2008, is part of an initiative geared to make that city the environmental-friendly capital of the world by 2020.

Park Kun Tae, director of Chongwon’s largest Nubija centre, said a total of 215,000 persons rent the GPS-loaded bicycles per day.

“The membership at my centre is roughly 50,000. People are encouraged to ride bicycles for the health benefits and to help in the reduction of harmful pollutants from motor vehicles,” he told Auto, through a translator. He said the 33,000 square-metre complex he is in charge of has a wide cross section of members.

“Housewives, teachers, business people, and persons who just want to learn come through our doors,” he said.

There are currently 240 terminals and 4,500 bicycles.

Park said membership fee is 1,000 won (roughly J$100) per day; 3,000 won per month; while 20,000 could procure one (including maintenance) for a year. Non-members are entitled to one free day.

Bicycle lanes were created throughout the city to ensure the safety of riders.

The centres have created 150 new jobs and a popular means of transport for short distances.

The 22nd of each month is designated car-free and meat-free days. And an added incentive, the Government distributes transportation cards to citizens for them to take the public buses.

According to Government figures, the energy savings per year is 13.91 billion won while the carbon dioxide reduction is 16,288 tons.