Complexities in integrating shared micromobility with public transport
A new report from K2 highlights several of the complex issues that arise when shared micromobility—such as e-scooters and bicycles—is to be integrated with public transport. The report focuses on four central aspects: the type of transport system we wish to develop, social consequences, environmental sustainability, and the relationship between micromobility and existing transport and mobility systems.
K2 researchers Chiara Vitrano, Jean Ryan and Dalia Mukhtar-Landgren have reviewed existing research on micromobility. In their report, On the possibility of introducing and integrating shared micromobility with public transport, they reflect on how shared e-scooters and bicycles can be integrated with public transport and contribute to a more sustainable transport system.
The report emphasises that initiatives in shared micromobility need to be aligned with local and regional policy objectives, and that potential goal conflicts should be addressed transparently.
“There is a need for broader discussions on how municipalities and regions can govern, restrict or promote shared micromobility—discussions in which citizens’ perspectives are included,” says Chiara Vitrano.
Traffic environment and environmental benefits must be considered
Shared mobility services contribute both opportunities and challenges within the transport system.
“High speeds and congestion on pavements and cycle paths can create unsafe traffic environments that limit accessibility—for example, for people with disabilities—and thereby contribute to an unequal transport system,” notes Chiara Vitrano.
From an environmental perspective, studies indicate that the climate benefits of e-scooters are limited.
“Current research shows that shared e-scooters are more likely to replace walking, cycling and public transport journeys rather than car trips. For shared e-scooters to contribute to emission reductions, other measures need to be implemented concurrently and strategically—particularly those that reduce car ownership and car use,” Chiara Vitrano explains.
Both complementing and competing with public transport
Several studies show that shared micromobility not only complements but also competes with public transport. Research on this relationship produces partly conflicting results, underlining that the interaction between micromobility and public transport largely depends on local conditions and the specific type of service under study. While bike-sharing schemes appear to encourage more cycling in general, e-scooters tend to replace other sustainable modes—such as walking and cycling—and in some cases even compete with public transport.
The report concludes by urging municipalities and regional authorities to take an active role in steering the development of shared micromobility and to openly balance economic, social and environmental objectives against each other.
“To guide the development of shared micromobility in a more sustainable direction, public authorities need to make well-informed decisions about how and why shared micromobility should be integrated with public transport,” says Chiara Vitrano.
The report On the possibility of introducing and integrating shared micromobility with public transport was produced as part of the JPI Urban Europe project CARIN-PT (Capacities for Resilient and Inclusive Urban Public Transport Infrastructure and Built Environment, 2022–2025). The project addresses the need to strengthen the capacity for resilient, inclusive and multimodal public transport systems in an era of environmental, social, economic and technological transition.
“We hope the report invites reflection on the broader implications of introducing shared micromobility services and integrating them with public transport,” concludes Chiara Vitrano.
Report:
On the possibility of introducing and integrating shared micromobility with public transportText: Hanna Holm
Photo: Mostphotos