Assessing the Environmental Impact of Novel Mobility Services using Shared Electric Scooters as an Example

Abstract

This paper outlines a methodology for determining how novel mobility services such as shared electric scooters can be assessed in terms of their environmental impact. This paper utilises quantifiable environmental indicators including Global Warming Potential, local air quality as well as public space demand, and presents a case study for the city of Bochum, Germany. In order to demonstrate the potential environmental impact of an electric scooter sharing system three scenarios for a modal split in Bochum are developed and examined. The findings support the proposal that novel mobility services can reduce the environmental impact of urban transportation systems. Moreover, recommendations for further increasing the environmental benefit of novel mobility services can be derived from this approach.