Environmental Impacts of Micromobility

Abstract

Globally, the e-scooter/e-bike network has already spread to more than 500 cities, 60 countries, and five continents, with the largest scooter rental companies counting tens of millions of registered trips. However, it is important to evaluate the environmental impact of these micromobility vehicles. Are these transportation options really as eco-friendly as the media and social networks claim? The fact that e-scooters/e-bikes do not emit gases from exhaust pipes does not necessarily mean that they do not create emissions and are completely eco-friendly. The environmental impact of these micromobility modes depends on their lifecycle, including production, distribution, and disposal. More than half of the emissions are generated from the extraction of necessary raw materials and the manufacturing process. Moreover, e-scooters/e-bikes require batteries that contain rare metals and whose production processes are energy-intensive. Shared e-scooter/e-bike services also involve energy-consuming charging and maintenance processes. Furthermore, e-scooters have a short lifespan, and improper disposal can pose environmental risks. E-scooters/e-bikes are frequently thrown into bodies of water, dropped from buildings, set on fire or otherwise damaged. The positive impact on the climate from manufacturing and using e-scooters/e-bikes could become a reality if significant attention is given to recyclable materials and sustainable development. Choosing renewable energy sources and optimizing every step of the service supply chain is also crucial for maintaining an efficient servicing system.