Shifting urban mobility patterns due to COVID-19: comparative analysis of implemented urban policies and travel behaviour changes with an assessment of overall GHG emissions implications

COVID-19-induced confinements rapidly change behavioural patterns and social norms of street space use worldwide. In the following study we compile data to assess shifting urban mobility during confinement (phase 1), and in reaction to COVID-19 induced physical distancing policies (phase 2). In a comparative analysis of 16 cities, we show that public transit decreased by 80% during confinement, but individual motorized transport only by 64%. Cycling modal share increased in some cities. COVID-19 and sustainability are intertwined via risks, susceptibility, and positive and negative outcomes, in particular via sustainable development goal 3 (SDG3) (health), SDG5 (gender equality), SDG11 (sustainable cities) and SDG13 (climate action). Confinement-induced social gains are realized in reduced congestion, improved air quality, and less accidents, partially compensated by unhealthy eating, and domestic violence. Our analysis reveals that cities around the world provided more space for cyclist and pedestrians as part of pandemic-related measures, pedestrianizing streets, implementing 550 km ad-hoc bicycle infrastructure and planning additional 1500 km. Our computation indicates that GHG emissions savings due to increased uptake of cycling in the EU reduced urban land transport GHG emissions by 0.3% (1 Mt CO2), while GHG emission savings were larger in cities with pop-up bicycle lanes (between 0.43% and 1.87%). Our findings also demonstrate that proactive cities had already plans in their drawers and demonstrated institutional alignment of vocal civil society, administrations and politicians. We argue that long-term sustainability trajectories of cities will depend on transformation of both physical and digital infrastructures.

Automated summary

COVID-19-induced confinements have significantly changed human behavior and social norms in street spaces worldwide. This study examines the shifting urban mobility during the confinement period and in response to COVID-19 physical distancing policies. The analysis shows that public transit decreased by 80% during confinement, while individual motorized transport decreased by 64%. Some cities experienced an increase in cycling modal share. COVID-19 and sustainability are closely linked, particularly in terms of health, gender equality, sustainable cities, and climate action. The study reveals both positive and negative outcomes of the confinement, including reduced congestion and improved air quality, but also unhealthy eating habits and domestic violence. Cities around the world have taken measures to provide more space for cyclists and pedestrians, such as pedestrianizing streets and implementing temporary bicycle infrastructure. The findings suggest that increased uptake of cycling has resulted in greenhouse gas emission reductions, with cities with pop-up bicycle lanes achieving greater savings.