ARTICLE: Cycling , Climate Change and Air Pollution

Cycling is considered a healthy and sustainable form of getting from A to B. The net effects of the various forms of cycling and e-biking on mobility-related air pollutant emissions are complex. This chapter synthesizes research on the potential of cycling and e-biking to reduce (and contribute) to air pollutant emissions from mode shift away from motorized transport. Life cycle analysis of greenhouse gas emissions from production, use and end-of-life of active and motorized vehicles is used to compare the most common urban transport modes and determine whether cycling and e-biking reduce overall emissions or not. By doing so the Chapter provides a summary of research on cycling as a low carbon and clean mobility option in context of the climate emergency and the air quality crisis in cities.