Benchmarking bike-sharing systems: an analysis of the sustainable potential of use-oriented solutions
Benchmarking: An International Journal
ISSN: 1463-5771
Article publication date: 24 January 2023
Issue publication date: 9 January 2024
Abstract
Purpose
Product-service systems (PSS) are regarded as highly sustainable solutions. However, studies identifying and comparing the sustainable potential of product-service offerings by considering the three sustainability dimensions are still scarce. This paper aims to benchmark and analyse the sustainable potential of a use-oriented PSS, showing the influence of the context of implementation on the sustainable potential of the solutions.
Design/methodology/approach
By adopting a competitive benchmarking approach, six bicycle-sharing systems from different countries were selected for analysis. The main sustainability-related aspects in use-oriented PSS (the systems investigated) were identified through a literature review. Multiple secondary sources were used to collect data about the analysed PSS. A qualitative analysis was conducted through triangulation of the sources to identify and compare the systems by considering the selected sustainability aspects.
Findings
The main results show that use-oriented PSS provide a range of economic, social, and environmental benefits, confirming the sustainable potential of such solutions. Several similarities between the systems have been identified, along with some differences, especially regarding their integration with other transport systems and the use of renewable energy, which can affect users' acceptance, operation efficacy, and overall sustainable potential of the solutions.
Practical implications
This study identifies best practices that can be considered by other bike-sharing businesses to improve their sustainability potential.
Originality/value
This study identifies and explores the sustainable potential of bicycle-sharing solutions using a benchmark approach. It augments existing empirical knowledge on sustainable PSS and business models by revealing best practices, including the context that may enhance the sustainability potential of the solutions regarding environmental, economic, and social benefits.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to thank the National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq) for funding this research. We also appreciate the English revision provided by a private company. Finally, the authors express their sincerest gratitude to the anonymous reviewers as well as the Editor-in-Chief for their feedback and great suggestions and recommendations that undoubtedly enhanced our manuscript.
Citation
Inhof, A.C., Cauchick-Miguel, P.A., Moro, S.R. and Zomer, T.T.d.S. (2024), "Benchmarking bike-sharing systems: an analysis of the sustainable potential of use-oriented solutions", Benchmarking: An International Journal, Vol. 31 No. 1, pp. 121-139. https://doi.org/10.1108/BIJ-02-2022-0136
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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