Shared Micromobility: Building Better Communities

The Evolution of Shared Micromobility

Two decades ago, the concept of shared micromobility was largely unknown, and its potential to foster healthier, more equitable communities was rarely considered.

However, by 2020, over 200 cities across North America had implemented at least one shared micromobility system, deploying a total of 169,000 vehicles. This growth has highlighted the significant impact even short-distance transportation methods can have on quality of life.

Supporting Social Justice

Recently, shared micromobility has emerged as an unexpected, yet valuable, supporter of racial justice initiatives and related events.

The North American Bikeshare & Scootershare Association’s 2020 State of the Industry Report revealed that many agencies and operators offered free or discounted rides to demonstrators attending these events.

Furthermore, numerous systems actively donated to, or fundraised for, nonprofits dedicated to racial justice causes.

Progress Towards Equity and Inclusion

Increased focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion prompted critical self-assessment and organizational changes within the industry.

In 2020, 71% of shared micromobility systems incorporated diversity into every hiring process.

Additionally, 69% reported representation of women and people of color at all organizational levels.

While acknowledging that further progress is needed, these figures demonstrate a clear commitment to improving equity, diversity, and inclusion.

Adapting to Community Needs

The shared micromobility sector is continuously refining its policies and practices to better serve the communities it operates within.

This includes offering discount programs for residents with lower incomes and providing adaptive vehicles for individuals with diverse abilities, recognizing mobility as a fundamental right.

Health, Environmental, and Economic Benefits

Agencies and operators understand the importance of promoting active transportation options to encourage healthier lifestyles.

This, in turn, can yield positive economic, social, and environmental outcomes.

In 2020, North Americans accumulated an extra 12.2 million hours of physical activity and reduced carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 29 million pounds through the use of shared micromobility.

Research from Colorado State University indicated that bike-share users saved the U.S. healthcare system over $36 million annually.

Another study found that scooter users generated $921 in unplanned spending per scooter at local food and beverage businesses.

Integration with Public Transportation

To maximize community benefits and create truly functional cities, shared micromobility must be integrated into existing public transportation networks.

Multimodal commuting is becoming increasingly popular among urban travelers.

In 2020, half of all riders utilized shared micromobility to connect with transit systems.

Approximately 16% of the 83.4 million shared micromobility trips taken that year were specifically for connecting to public transportation.

The growing adoption and requirement of the General Bikeshare Feed Specification (GBFS), an open data standard, underscores the importance of a seamless, integrated trip planning experience.

A Critical Component of Change

When fully utilized, shared micromobility is a powerful tool for positive urban transformation.

As cities, states, and nations grapple with challenges related to equity, social issues, and climate change, engaging shared micromobility as a vital element of change is now more crucial than ever.