Net-Zero Hero: Ricardo Treviño

I’m helping to make Austin Net-Zero by embracing sustainable transportation and building a community around cycling.

Meet our newest Net-Zero Hero, Ricardo Treviño! From biking instead of driving to recycling nearly everything he can, Ricardo finds simple, everyday ways to live more sustainably. He also participates in (and previously led) rides with Social Cycling Austin, a group that brings casual, beginner-friendly bike rides to the city, helping people explore Austin and connect with others. For Ricardo, sustainability isn’t a big production — it’s a mindset that can be woven into the routines of daily life.

We met with Ricardo outside of his workplace in downtown Austin, right before National Bike Month season, to discuss his journey, the impact of his work, and his hope for the future of cycling in Austin.

What inspired you to take action?

Everything just seemed to fall into place. I was able to purchase a home near downtown in 2000. Around the same time, I took a job just off West 6th Street, which made for an easy bike ride. The ride to work quickly became addictive and really inspired me to keep it up.

Over time, I found myself becoming more connected to the cycling community and realized it was something I wanted to share with others. From taking my grandkids on rides around the neighborhood to inviting new friends to Saturday Social Cycles, I do my best to introduce people to the joy and freedom that comes with getting around on a bike. It’s a lot easier (and more fun) than you’d think to live more sustainably. 

Ricardo walks with his bike near his workplace in downtown Austin.

How did you do it?

I found inspiration from others and tried not to let the difficulties get to me. I’ve always been an active person — running was a big part of my life for years. After completing a marathon at 40, I figured that was a good note to end on, so I decided to give my knees a break and picked up cycling instead — LOL. What started as a way to stay active turned into a daily routine that fit naturally into my lifestyle, and I’ve kept up ever since.

Left to right: Ricardo takes his grandchildren on a bike ride; Ricardo accompanies his grandchildren on a bike ride in the neighborhood.

What’s been most rewarding about getting involved in this way?

One of the most rewarding parts of cycling over driving around Austin has been my exposure to so many areas that I probably wouldn’t notice otherwise.

I don’t follow a set routine in the way most people think. I like to switch things up and take different routes to work so I can explore parts of the city that aren’t directly on my path downtown. Sometimes I’ll stop at one of the bridges over Lady Bird Lake just to catch the sunrise or feel the warmth of the sun.

What’s been the toughest part?

The toughest part of keeping up with this hobby is simply age. I’m 65 now, and every year the cold weather seems to get a little harder on me. Because of that, my winter cycling has slowed down quite a bit. But as soon as things warm up, I’m right back on my bike and ready to ride again!

Top to bottom: Ricardo gears up for a ride by putting his helmet on; Ricardo puts on his cycling gloves.

May is National Bike Month. Can you share a defining moment or memory that solidified your passion for bicycling?

A defining moment for me was joining Social Cycling Austin, especially the Thursday Night Social Ride. The energy, the people, and the sense of community were incredible. Meeting others who shared the same mindset and passion for biking really inspired me to keep showing up. Those friendships motivated me to get out there — not just to ride, but also to help bring attention to the challenges and stereotypes that cyclists often face.

What’s your vision for the future of cycling in Austin — and what gives you hope that we’ll get there?

My hope for the future of cycling in Austin is rooted in education — reaching the broader public with clear, consistent messaging about bike safety and awareness. I’ve always believed that if Texas had a campaign for cycling safety as bold and recognizable as “Don’t Mess With Texas,” it could shift both attitudes and behaviors. It would not only encourage more people to try biking, but also help drivers understand their role in keeping cyclists safe on the road.

With the recent surge in e-bike use, it’s clear that the cycling community is growing, and that gives me a lot of hope. I wholeheartedly support this momentum and believe that with the right support and education, biking can become more accessible to riders of any level.

Ricardo snaps a couple of selfies with different Social Cycle Austin groups around Austin.

What advice do you have for others?

The hardest thing to do on a bike is slow down. Slow and go in some cases works fine, but first you have to slow before you go. 

It’s easy to get caught up in the momentum, but being mindful of your speed and your ability to stop safely is key. Whether you're riding solo or in a group, taking that extra second to brake, yield, or look twice can make all the difference.

In city traffic:

• Cycle defensively. Not to be confused with cycling aggressively.
• People in cars anticipate your moves. Make sure you are deliberate in your actions.
• Always wave at other cyclists, no matter what.
• Always let pedestrians have the right of way.

If you’re cycle-curious or a long-time rider interested in riding with others, check out Social Cycling Austin on their Facebook or Instagram. You can also join the fun on Bike to Work Day on Friday, May 16, 2025, which features fueling stations with free swag, coffee, treats, complimentary tune-ups, a celebration at City Hall, and more!

Biking plays a key role in creating a safer, more sustainable Austin. As we celebrate National Bike Month, explore how the City is working to expand bike infrastructure and promote active transportation. Learn more about how cycling fits into Austin’s broader climate goals by visiting the Austin Climate Equity Plan, and see what actions you can take to support a cleaner, more connected city.

Share your Net-Zero contributions with us on X (formerly Twitter) or Facebook, and use #NetZeroHero. If you know a Net-Zero Hero (or heroes!) who should be recognized for their efforts, send your nomination to climate@austintexas.gov.