Addressing the gender gap in cycling: Lisbon's journey for a more inclusive cycling ecosystem

Abstract

Despite significant investment towards the promotion of cycling in Lisbon, data collected reveal a substantial gender gap both in private bicycle use and in the public bike-sharing system, GIRA (around 70% are male users). To tackle this issue, the work (herein presented) consisted of an investigation to key factors underpinning the observed gender gap, knowledge that informed an action plan that aims to promote a more equal access to GIRA. Our journey included a thorough qualitative and quantitative user research process aiming at gathering gender-disaggregated data to better understand access barriers and unmet needs. We resorted to various methods such as an online survey, in-depth interviews and an immersive experience with GIRA. The exploratory phase was then followed by a set of co-creation sessions with bicycle users and non-bicycle users which was the basis of EMEL's action plan.