Europe's First Expert Group on Cargo Bikes and Cycle Logistics kicks-off in Brussels
On 15th October 2019, Cycling Industries Europe (CIE), the new trade association for companies in the cycling sector, and the European Cycle Logistics Federation (ECLF) hosted in Brussels the kick-off meeting of Europe’s first Expert Group on Cargo Bikes and Cycle Logistics. Polis supported the initiative by presenting the work done by its members on cargo bikes and the activities of the Urban Freight Working Group.
About 40 representatives of companies and industries from the cycling business sector, together with senior logistics professionals, discussed the potential of cargo bikes and cycle logistics in contributing to the decarbonisation of urban freight and passenger transport in EU cities. Significant added value can be provided by cargo bikes, in commercial and domestic settings: figures from research show that cargo bikes have the potential to replace vans in 32% of delivery trips and in 50% of service trips. It was also discussed how the potential sale of 2 million new cargo bikes per year by 2030 would represent a push for climate, whilst stimulating the economy through the creation of new jobs and opportunities in the sector of urban sustainable logistics.
Support for the initiative was expressed by a range of local and European actors, such as the city of Mechelen, which showcased its leadership by example in sustainable urban logistics (cargo bike purchase subsidy schemes, municipal cargo bike fleet); the European Commission, which identified the growth of the cargo bike sector as perfectly in line with the EU zero emissions and carbon neutrality strategy. Susanne Wrighton, coordinator of the EU project City Changer Cargo Bike (CCCB), presented the initial impact and results of the project, highlighting how boosting cargo bikes would benefit the quality of life of EU citizens and would match the climate target goals in the transport sector.
As a result of the discussion, the expert group has identified four working areas to focus on, such as finance, services & systems, marketing & communication and standards.
For more information about CIE’s Expert Group please contact A.Sumer@cyclingindustries.com
- Richard Armitage (ECLF)
- Veerle De Meyer (City of Mechelen)
- Erik Driessen (Urban Arrow)
- Peter Harris (UPS)
- Kevin Mayne (CIE)
- Piero Valmassoi (POLIS Network)
- Susanne Wrighton (Austrian Mobility Research)
