In a recent webinar hosted by the SMAPE project and supported by POLIS, ShareDiMobiHub presented innovative regulatory frameworks for shared mobility services. Read the recap and watch the video here.
The last decade has witnessed a remarkable surge in shared mobility options, including car-sharing, bike-sharing, and e-scooter programs. These services provide sustainable and flexible transportation alternatives, significantly contributing to reduced traffic congestion, lower emissions, and enhanced urban mobility. However, the rapid growth of shared mobility has introduced challenges such as vehicle mismanagement, safety concerns, and the need for equitable access. Addressing these issues requires robust regulatory frameworks. Such frameworks ensure that shared mobility services are seamlessly integrated into urban transport systems, benefiting the public while supporting service providers. By setting clear guidelines, standards, and incentives, regulatory frameworks foster a balanced and inclusive approach, driving sustainable mobility policies forward.
For that reason, different projects from the Interreg programme gather to discussed innovative and inclusive policy tools regarding shared mobility regulation. Hosted by the SMAPE project on June 25 and supported by project partner POLIS, ShareDiMobihub showcased the importance of this frameworks towards a wide array of participants from across Europe.
Opening Remarks and Introduction
Sami Angsthelm from the SMALL project and BAX & Company moderated the session, highlighting the necessity of developing balanced policies for shared mobility. He noted that the boom in shared mobility has led to various challenges, primarily due to insufficient communication between operators and cities. Sami emphasized that effective regulatory frameworks are crucial for establishing a safe, inclusive, and sustainable shared mobility ecosystem. He underscored the importance of dialogue and the exchange of best practices among cities and projects to develop effective shared mobility strategies.
SharediMobiHub: Integrating Mobility Hubs in Regulatory Frameworks
Bram Seeuws from Autodelen.net, presented the advancements on SharediMobiHub and provided an in-depth analysis of various regulatory frameworks that cities and regions can adopt to manage shared mobility services. He stressed the importance of clear definitions, conditions, quality standards, and incentives in creating a balanced regulatory environment. Bram discussed different regulatory models, ranging from open licensing systems to more controlled municipal programs. Open licensing systems allow any eligible operator to receive a license, promoting diversity and competition. In contrast, more controlled systems, such as single-operator partnerships or municipal programs, involve the city more deeply in managing shared mobility services.
A key focus of Bram's presentation was the integration of mobility hubs within these frameworks. Mobility hubs serve as centralized points for various shared mobility options, enhancing convenience and accessibility for users. By incorporating mobility hubs into regulatory frameworks, cities can create cohesive and efficient shared mobility networks that cater to diverse transportation needs. Bram also emphasized the importance of providing incentives to operators who meet high standards and align with city goals, such as reducing emissions and increasing accessibility.
Making Shared Mobility for All: Lessons from Different Cities
Daniel Herrera from POLIS discussed the Shared Mobility for All (SMALL) project, also part of Interreg North-Sea Region programme, which aims to make shared mobility more inclusive by addressing the needs of diverse user groups, including children, the elderly, and individuals with physical impairments. He emphasized the project's co-creation approach, involving target groups in the design and development of shared mobility solutions. Daniel shared insights from various pilots across different cities. For instance, in the Capital Region of Denmark, a shared mobility service is being piloted at a hospital to help patients complete the last mile of their journey using shared vehicles. In Ville de Saint-Quentin, France, a pilot focuses on shared bicycles for schoolchildren to promote active mobility during school trips. Adaptive vehicles are being introduced in various locations to cater to people with reduced mobility. The project's ultimate goal is to develop policy recommendations and best practices by analysing a policy database from across Europe, ensuring that shared mobility services are accessible to all user groups.
Shared Mobility on Islands: Insights from the North Aegean Region
Maria Eleftheriadou from the Regional Development Fund of North Aegean Region discussed the unique challenges and opportunities in implementing shared mobility in the North Aegean region as part of the Interreg Europe SMAPE project. The region consists of ten islands with varying levels of infrastructure and mobility needs. Maria highlighted the efforts to introduce smart mobility applications, such as car-sharing, e-bikes, and e-scooters, to improve transportation options. She detailed specific challenges, including seasonal mobility demand, poor road infrastructure, and the difficulty of transporting private vehicles on ferries. Plans to create micro hubs on smaller islands were discussed to enhance tourism and reduce traffic congestion. These micro hubs would offer bicycle and scooter rentals, as well as charging points for electric vehicles, aimed at providing sustainable transport options for both residents and tourists. The SMAPE project aims to revise the regional operational program and integrate sustainable and inclusive mobility solutions, using the project to inspire local policymakers and stakeholders to adopt best practices from other regions.
Conclusion
The insights and discussions underscored the critical role that well-crafted regulatory frameworks play in the successful integration of shared mobility services in the different realities of European cities and regions. These frameworks are essential for maintaining order, safety, and inclusivity while fostering an environment that encourages innovation and market growth.
One of the key takeaways was the significance of mobility hubs within these regulatory frameworks. By serving as centralized points for various shared mobility options, mobility hubs enhance convenience, accessibility, and efficiency as stressed by all speakers. Integrating mobility hubs into urban planning not only improves the user experience but also supports the broader goals of sustainable and inclusive transportation networks.
Moving forward, the SharediMobiHub project and its partners are committed to advocating for balanced policies that support sustainable urban mobility. They will continue to emphasize the integration of mobility hubs to ensure that shared mobility benefits are accessible to all segments of the population.