The Örebro Energy Agency is making strides toward sustainable travel through its initiative, Fossilfritt 2030 – Rena resan (Fossil Free 2030 – A Clean Journey), aimed at encouraging behavioral changes in transportation habits.
Participants in the project had the opportunity to try out sustainable travel options, such as cargo and electric bikes, for limited periods. This hands-on experience opened up new transportation avenues that many might not have considered, significantly increasing the likelihood of lasting changes in their travel behaviors.
Collaborating municipalities utilized the project to explore innovative travel solutions. For instance, Karlskoga municipality successfully replaced traditional vehicle deliveries with cargo bikes for transporting laundry, leading to a permanent shift in their travel and work policies. “Integrating the cargo bike into the municipality’s carpool was vital, with employee involvement throughout the planning, testing, and evaluation phases being key to its success,” explained the project manager.
Beyond trial experiences, the project also rolled out a robust marketing strategy, focusing on emotional engagement alongside factual information. A notable campaign targeted new parents, emphasizing the advantages of cargo biking for children, presented from a child's perspective. This approach acknowledged that people are often more receptive to change during significant life events, such as relocating or having a child.
Overall, this initiative demonstrates how combining experiential learning, targeted marketing, and strategic planning can effectively promote sustainable travel practices.
Source: Örebro County Energy Agency
Details
- Publication date
- 28 October 2024
- Author
- European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency