The Role of Shared E-Scooter Systems in Urban Sustainability and Resilience during the Covid-19 Mobility Restrictions

TLDR

Shared e‑scooter systems, introduced in 2017, have spread worldwide as a sustainable transport mode supported by urban mobility strategies such as the European Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy that prioritizes non‑polluting modes. The study aimed to illustrate the range of effects achievable in urban mobility through proper implementation of shared e‑scooter systems, using a systematic literature review and a case study. This was accomplished via a systematic literature review and a case study. Shared e‑scooter systems reduce air pollution, lessen transport inequality, save money, and enhance mobility resilience, while during Covid‑19 they supported social distancing and reduced reliance on private cars, and in Braga the system remained a key post‑pandemic option with special fares to encourage use.

Abstract

Shared e-scooter systems were first introduced in 2017 and have since been spreading around the world as a sustainable mode of transport. The success of this mode is also due to new urban mobility strategies and plans, such as the European Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy, which relies on non-pollutant modes. To display the range of effects that can be achieved in urban mobility through the proper implementation of shared e-scooter systems, a systematic literature review and a case study were performed. It was found that this shared system can help cities with environmental issues, such as reducing air pollution, reducing inequality in access to transport, promoting money-saving, and improving mobility resilience. During the Covid-19 pandemic, shared e-scooters became a great asset in many cities worldwide, because they promote social distancing and help cities not to rely only on private cars to replace public transport rides, especially for short-distance trips. In the case study of Braga, it was found that the city still relies on shared e-scooter modes as a mobility option after the pandemic, also promoting special fares for people to start using the service.