Domestic Use of E-Cargo Bikes and Other E-Micromobility: Protocol for a Multi-Centre, Mixed Methods Study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Environmental Science
• Transportation Studies

Background:

• Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for non-communicable diseases.
• Climate change poses a significant threat to global public health.
• Electric micromobility offers a potential solution to increase physical activity and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the health and environmental impacts of e-micromobility.
• To identify optimal conditions for e-micromobility adoption to improve public health and reduce carbon emissions.
• To understand user experiences and barriers to e-micromobility use.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods approach combining surveys, e-cargo bike trials, and interviews.
• Quantitative data from national and city-wide surveys (total n=4196).
• Qualitative data from 49 household e-cargo bike trials, including objective activity tracking and CO2 impact calculations.

Main Results:

• E-micromobility has the potential to increase physical activity levels.
• Substitution of motorized transport with e-micromobility can decrease mobility-related energy demand and carbon emissions.
• Participant interviews revealed key preferences, expectations, barriers, and enablers for e-micromobility adoption.

Conclusions:

• E-micromobility presents a viable strategy for simultaneously addressing public health challenges and climate change mitigation.
• Further research and targeted interventions can maximize the benefits of e-micromobility for individuals and the environment.
• Understanding user perspectives is crucial for successful implementation and widespread adoption of e-micromobility solutions.