Electric Scooters and E-Bikes: Exploring the Impact on Public Health

The use of electric scooters and e-bikes has been on the rise in recent years as a mode of “last mile” transportation – that is, a way to get from a transit stop to your final destination. They are an attractive option for many people because they are relatively inexpensive, easy to use, and emit no pollutants.

However, there are some concerns about the impact of electric scooters and e-bikes on public health. One worry is that they may lead to more injuries, either to the users themselves or to pedestrians. Another concern is that they may contribute to air pollution, as they emit particulate matter and other pollutants.

So far, there is limited data on the health impacts of electric scooters and e-bikes. However, a recent study in the journal Transportation Research Part A found that, in general, they are associated with a reduction in traffic injuries. The study did not find a significant impact on air pollution.

Overall, electric scooters and e-bikes appear to be a promising option for sustainable transportation. However, more research is needed to understand their full impact on public health.

Sep 01, 2023