As cities worldwide grapple with global warming, congestion, pollution, and the need for healthier lifestyles, active travel is steadily taking centre stage as a possible transformative solution. One reason for this is that it is a solution that can adopted now and isn’t necessarily dependent on technology that we haven’t invented or perfected yet. This people-powered solution needs governmental and business backing, but ultimately, it is down to individual everyday choices.
Active travel is defined as walking, cycling, scooting, and other forms of non-motorised transportation. It is reshaping urban landscapes and daily commutes in cities across the globe. Some trends have emerged, which we want to explore here. We are covering five key trends driving this revolution: the integration of technology, the rise of e-bikes and e-scooters, the development of multi-modal transportation hubs, infrastructure improvements, and sustainable urban planning.
Integration of Technology
From smartphones to smart fridges and cars – the technology revolution has become a daily part of our lives on every level. Technology has also been at the heart of the active travel evolution. Smart bike share systems equipped with real-time tracking and app-based access have made renting bikes on the go easier than ever. Not to mention that scooter sharing is still the only way to ride an electric scooter legally in the UK. These technology-powered systems allow users to participate in active travel without the sunk cost of acquiring a bike or a scooter and offer convenience and flexibility.
The technology integrations don’t stop just with shared transport. GPS and Internet of Things (IoT) devices are being integrated into personal bikes and scooters to enhance route planning and safety. Riders can access real-time data on traffic, road conditions, and air quality, allowing them to choose the safest and most efficient routes. This leads to the next trend, which has been powered by the continuous strive to improve the technology behind batteries.
The Rise of E-Bikes and E-Scooters
Electric bikes (e-bikes) and e-scooters arrived a few years ago and are certainly here to stay. They have been making active travel more accessible to a broader audience. Longer commutes and hilly terrains are no longer obstacles to active travel commuting. E-bikes, with their motor-assisted pedalling, are the ideal solution for reducing the physical exertion required.
On the other hand, e-scooters offer a convenient and fun way to navigate urban areas. They have played an important role in the accessibility of active travel, especially for ‘last mile’ type of short journeys. They are helpful as they are quick and cheap to ride when hired, you don’t need to wear any particular type of clothing to be comfortable, and, unlike bikes, you don’t really need to learn how to ride one. This makes scooters an excellent alternative to bikes, as some of these – cost, necessary gear, and ability, are barriers that stop some people from riding a bicycle.
Many cities have embraced e-scooter share programs, providing an alternative to traditional public transport. The popularity of these electric options is driven by their ability to cover greater distances with less effort, making active travel a viable option for more people. We hope that as a next step, the government will make personal e-scooters legal to drive, further cementing the trend.
Multi-modal Transportation Hubs
Cities are developing an increasing number of multi-modal transport hubs to accommodate the rising demand for better connectivity between modes of transport. As active travel gains traction, cities are trying to connect cycling, walking, and public transit seamlessly.
These centralised hubs for easy switching can help a commuter ride a bike to a transportation hub, secure it in a safe bike parking area with stands or racks, and then transfer to a bus or train for the next leg of their journey. By facilitating smooth transitions, these hubs encourage the use of active travel and reduce reliance on private cars.
Infrastructure Improvements
Active travel, and more specifically cycling, has been on the rise. However, when surveyed, most people say that one of their top reasons for not doing it is the lack of safety on the roads. Dedicated bike lanes and pedestrian pathways are the best solution for this and are crucial for the safety and convenience of active travellers.
Cities are investing in extensive networks of protected bike lanes, ensuring cyclists have a safe space on the road. Pedestrian pathways are being expanded and improved, making walking a more attractive option. Additionally, some cities are creating low-traffic neighbourhoods and car-free zones to prioritise active travel and lower car usage. These infrastructure improvements enhance safety and promote a culture of walking and cycling as viable modes of transportation.
Sustainable Urban Planning
Sustainable urban planning is integral to the success of active travel initiatives. Cities are increasingly adopting policies that favour compact, mixed-use developments. These developments bring closer residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, reducing the need for long commutes. By designing communities that encourage walking and cycling, urban planners are creating environments where active travel is the most convenient and efficient option. Policies requiring new developments to include active travel infrastructure and green spaces further drive this trend.
There is also an increasing interest in certification schemes such as BREEAM, LEED, or Active Score, which focus on buildings’ green credentials, with transport playing an important role. Schemes like Active Score specifically evaluate how well-equipped a building is to cater to active travellers and can be used as a solid stepping stone to getting a development successfully BREEAM certified.
The future of urban mobility is being shaped by these emerging trends in active travel. As technology integrates more seamlessly into our transportation options, e-bikes and e-scooters make longer distances more manageable, and multi-modal hubs, infrastructure improvements, and sustainable planning efforts transform cityscapes. These advancements are starting to address the challenges of global warming, congestion and pollution and promote healthier lifestyles and better connected communities. By embracing these trends, cities can create vibrant, sustainable environments where active travel is the norm rather than the exception.