Recently, a study in Sweden raised several eyebrows with a single question: what would happen if electric bicycles replaced cars in cities? In the Scandinavian country, The transport sector is responsible for 32 % of greenhouse gas emissions. “Our analysis – the study points out – explore the potential of electric bicycles to replace car trips and reduce transport -related emissions.”
Simulation results suggest that electric bicycles They could replace almost two thirds of car trips with the logic decrease in air pollution levels. But its effect would also be seen in other areas.
For example, a healthier population, since Using electric bicycles provides cardiovascular exercise, improves physical condition and mental well -being, while fighting the sedentary lifestyle associated with the use of the car.
It is also generated an economic savings, both in fuels, as in insurance, maintenance and parking. Another important savings is time: urban traffic is reduced as well as transfer times.
Finally, there is a section, often abandoned, which is that of noise pollution. According to the European Environmental Agency “Noise affects our health more than we believe. Exposure to ambient noise is a generalized problem throughout Europe, especially in road, rail and plane transport. More than one hundred million people live in areas where noise levels can be harmful to health. , Noise pollution affects our health by maintaining our bodies in a constant state of ‘struggle or flight’, even if we do not realize.
This continuous state of activation can Cause harmful physiological responses, such as inflammation and oxidative stress. Over time, these repeated reactions can increase the risk of various health problems, such as ischemic heart disease, diabetes, strokes, obesity, child cognitive deterioration and mental health problems. ”
In this way, electric bicycles are silent, which generates quieter and more healthy urban environments. This change too would eliminate the specific mechanical noises of vehicles, such as engine and escape buzzcreating quieter streets and allowing a more pronounced perception of natural sounds.
The World Health Organization It suggests a maximum 65 dB for a habitable environment. The data is important because a recent analysis of the MANGWE bicycle manufacturer in its E-Bike Mapfour N1 Air Electric Motor It shows that the engine works less than 55 dB. This means that it is even quieter than the usual urban background noise.
Thus, like electric bicycles, they have the potential to bow the balance of climate change, they can also create a new balance in The “pragmatic change”: one linked to our physical and mental health, but also to our economy and even the urban landscape.