Design for sharing, incentivizing circular bike sharing systems

Globally, societies face a range of challenges in the 21st century, including energy, climate, materials, water, food, biodiversity, etc. The drive to reduce energy consumption, resource use and product waste, includes the societal transition to a circular economy, which has the concept of sharing as an important aspect. Specific examples include bike-sharing, which is being hailed as one of the most ecological and efficient urban transportation models. To date, however, less attention has been given to the design of the bike using circular approaches, which in turn is likely to incentivize societal acceptance. In order to address this gap, this study examines a case of bike-sharing systems in Milan, Italy, and outlines several mixed factors that affect user acceptance. Building on insights from “Design for X” literature, three dimensions are introduced; functional, aesthetic and symbolic. This analysis facilitates the development of a qualitative semi-structured survey of users. Results were used to inform how design can influence users’ behaviours, habits, and actions, contributing to an increase user acceptance rates.