The free online Challenge encouraging people in Northern Ireland to walk, cycle, run, or use public transport for everyday journeys in June has opened for registration.

The Active Travel Challenge follows a record-breaking 2025 initiative, which saw its highest level of participation since 2019. More than 1,600 people across Northern Ireland signed up, logging more than 27,000 journeys, saving over £22,000 in travel costs and over 18,000kg of CO2.

The annual challenge is delivered by us in collaboration with Translink, Public Health Agency (PHA), Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast City Council, Derry City and Strabane District Council and the Western Health and Social Care Trust, with support from the Department for Infrastructure (DfI).

Throughout June, participants are encouraged to leave the car at home in favour of walking, cycling, public transport, or other active travel options for commuting, school runs, shopping trips, and leisure activities, as the initiative supports healthier and greener travel choices.
 
Ian Campbell, Director of Service Operations, Translink, said: "The Active Travel Challenge continues to go from strength to strength, and it's fantastic to see so many people and organisations across Northern Ireland embracing more sustainable ways of getting around.”

Dr Hannah McCourt, Health and Wellbeing Manager, Public Health Agency, said: “The Active Travel Challenge gives everyone the opportunity to build more movement into their daily routines, supporting both physical and mental wellbeing. Incorporating activities like walking, wheeling or cycling, alongside using public transport, is a simple way to improve fitness, boost mood and take positive steps towards better long-term health.”

Claire Pollock, Head of Walk Wheel Cycle Trust Northern Ireland, said: “The Active Travel Challenge is a great starting point for lasting change. Whether it’s walking or cycling for shorter journeys, or combining these with public transport for longer trips, these small changes can make a big difference to how we travel every day.”

Exciting competition for workplaces and individuals

The initiative is open to everyone of all ages and abilities across Northern Ireland, with lots of great prizes. It also presents a key opportunity for businesses, community organisations, universities, and public sector bodies to engage their staff, students, and members, encouraging friendly competition, supporting wellbeing, and making a collective contribution to reducing carbon emissions.

To find out more and register for the 2026 Active Travel Challenge today, visit atc.getmeactive.org.uk and follow all the action on social media using #GetMeActiveNI.