More than 60% of city dwellers believe that municipalities should do more to reduce CO2 emissions from car traffic. They also want fewer cars on the street. Car sharing can be a good solution. Almost 4 in 10 Dutch people consider using a shared car if it is available within walking distance and is cheaper than driving a private car. The reduced impact on the environment is seen as the most important positive effect. That appears from the online survey that was carried out by Markteffect on behalf of Natuur & Milieu and MyWheels.
According to the majority of respondents, municipalities could best encourage the use of shared cars by making the use of shared cars cheaper and by improving the supply and distribution. Policies they most support are higher parking fees, limiting parking permits and introducing zero-emission zones.
local politics
Rob van Tilburg, Director of Programs at Nature & Environment: “It is now the turn of local politicians. Residents think it's time for shared mobility. Municipalities are expanding the range of shared mobility and making it cheaper, reducing the number of parking spaces in favor of more greenery and introducing zones where passenger cars are only allowed to drive emission-free. A car-free city only has advantages: better for people, better for the climate and the environment and better for shops. During the municipal elections on Wednesday, March 16, residents will certainly have something to choose from. Choose a party that has an eye for a clean living environment and the amount of space that cars take up. "
Cleaner air and more space for greenery
The Dutch are considering using a shared car because it is less harmful to the environment, better for air quality and provides more space for greenery. Nearly 60% is in favor of reducing parking spaces in favor of green spaces and shared cars. 60% are prepared to leave the car behind and travel with a more environmentally friendly alternative such as public transport and a bicycle. 1 in 3 Dutch people is willing to pay extra for their transport if it is more environmentally friendly. For 70% an electric shared car is the ideal shared car.
“The survey confirms what we have observed as a trend over the past 2 years. Due to the higher availability of car-sharing, awareness and interest in car-sharing is increasing. Even at the expense of the private car. It seems that the dominance of the (own) car is on the decline. The role of the municipality in continuing this trend cannot be underestimated. We are pleased with the clear signal given by the residents of the Netherlands in the survey. It is time to give space back to residents without sacrificing mobility. The shared car is an excellent alternative, but can still use the push of the municipalities. †
Positive and negative associations
Respondents who have previously made use of a shared car mainly cite speed compared to public transport, the lower price and convenience as the most important advantages of a shared car. 86% of the Dutch are familiar with the concept of shared cars. The term evokes both positive (38%) and negative associations (39%). Convenience, environmental friendliness and providers are positive, while price, availability and user inconveniences are negative associations. Three quarters (76%) indicate that they know at least one car-sharing provider. Even if it is only by name.
The representative online survey took place between 7 and 22 February 2022 among 2069 respondents living in urban areas.
