A small action may make a big difference - possible instruments to increase the modal share of cycling in Helsinki

Abstract

Sustainable mobility has received increasing attention as a means of reducing carbon dioxide emissions and mitigating the speed of climate change. In the city of Helsinki, cycling promotion is seen as an important factor to reach carbon-neutrality by 2035. However, despite a few corresponding actions in the Bicycle Action Plan 2020-2025, there might still be space for other instruments. This thesis aims to seek optimizations in the functionalities of the cycling network in Helsinki, which will help in realizing the goals in the plan and further serve sustainable mobility.

This thesis uses a literature review and best practice examples to examine various cycling promotion instruments that are then adapted to Helsinki. In the end, the thesis proposes a toolbox regarding cycling landscapes and introduces five possible scenarios.

This thesis provides a possible guideline for a quality cycling environment in Helsinki, which assists in increasing the modal share of cycling. This thesis also discusses the positive effects of urban aesthetics.