Argentina: ‘Más Bicis, Menos Emisiones’ (More Bikes, Less Emissions)

As part of its commitment to become carbon neutral by 2050, the city of Buenos Aires implemented the ‘Más Bicis, Menos Emisiones’ (More Bikes, Less Emissions) programme to support a transition to clean, sustainable and active modes of transport. Since 2009, the city has introduced initiatives to encourage active travel, including the development of a network of bicycle lanes throughout the city, and ‘EcoBici’, a bicycle sharing scheme that allows citizens to rent a bicycle for free. Since 2013, there has been a 131% increase in the number of bicycle trips made in Buenos Aires. In 2020, cycling accounted for 10% of all trips made in the city and it is estimated that the bicycle programme resulted in a reduction of over 12,000 tons of CO2 emissions in that year. The cycle programme has also created safer roads for cyclists and reduced the number of deaths from fatal cycling accidents. 

The city recognised the importance of safe, active travel, which facilitated the development of the bike programme. Creating both cycle lanes and a bike sharing scheme encouraged both those with bikes to cycle and those without a bike to take up cycling. In addition, the cycle lanes link key areas such as schools, universities and hospitals, as well as less densely populated areas to ensure bike lanes are accessible to all. The Covid-19 pandemic also amplified the need for the programme, as many citizens avoided crowded public transport. Buenos Aires plans on expanding the cycle lanes network and the EcoBici network to every neighbourhood in the city. 

Active travel interventions have the potential to improve public health and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. However, a bike programme alone is not sufficient to create substantial change. To reduce overall emissions from the sector, Buenos Aires has also implemented actions to reduce the number of cars on the streets. The city aims to establish multiple city centres where people can work, run errands and carry out leisure activities. It aims to create walkable, bikeable neighbourhoods, similar to the ‘15-minute city’ concept where essential amenities can be reached within a 15-minute walk or bike ride. Cities looking to implement policies and actions should consider the need to implement systems changes in the transport sector and across all sectors to maximise the benefits for climate mitigation and public health. 

• Pathfinder Initiative Climate & Health Evidence Bank. Pathfinder Initiative.  
• City of Buenos Aires. (2020). Climate Action Plan 2050.    
• Case study video (English)   
• Case study video (Spanish)     
• For further information and case studies visit the Pathfinder Initiative Climate & Health Evidence Bank 

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