This paper investigates the mechanisms through which shared modes lead to degrowth strategies and help reduce major spatial and environmental issues related to mobility in urban areas, namely road congestion, rivalry of use for parking spaces and air pollution, as well as the number of goods in the economy. In this article, I use gross space consumption estimations for different transportation modes as a basis and integrate the service provided by the modes. Results indicate that in terms of time-space consumption and service provided shared modes are intermediate modes between private modes and mass transit. Therefore, shared modes constitute key components of a sustainable, comprehensive and efficient transportation system in urban areas. The present analysis provides guidance for local transportation authorities.

This media entry was a contribution to the special session „Spatial mobility and degrowth strategies: A note on the role of shared transportation modes“ at the 5th International Degrowth Conference in Budapest in 2016.