Cyclists’ exposure to atmospheric and noise pollution: a systematic literature review

Abstract

Cyclists constitute a population particularly exposed to atmospheric and noise pollution in urban environments; at the same time, they contribute to its reduction. For about ten years now, more and more studies have been completed to assess cyclists' exposure, comparing this mode of transportation with others, quantifying its impacts in term of individual and collective health, understanding cyclists' perceptions regarding their exposure, etc. Though some literature reviews have examined some of these specific issues, none have yet proposed a general overview of this field of study. Therefore, this mapping literature review fills this gap by jointly analysing 205 articles and identifying elements of consensus and disagreement, as well as existing gaps. Among others, our results indicate that the cities in the South and exposure to noise are under-studied and that cyclists' ventilation is still too rarely accounted for, regardless of the type of studies. Modelling studies regarding exposure are too heterogeneous methodologically to allow a generalisation of their results. Conversely, intermodal comparison studies clearly indicate overexposure for cyclists compared to other modes. Also, health studies conclude that, either individually or collectively, the benefits of cycling surpass the costs of exposure to atmospheric pollution. The knowledge produced by this research trend remains difficult to exploit by urban planners, but the recent work done seems to offer more practical perspectives to professionals.

A Literature Review of Emerging Research Needs for Micromobility—Integration through a Life Cycle Thinking Approach

“…Micromobility modes such as bicycles, e-scooters, lightweight PMDs, and walking can help to minimize pollution and noise in cities. However, these modes operate in crowded traffic areas, so the users are still exposed to particles and multiple sounds [13]. The health organizations even suggest that people with respiratory and cardiovascular problems should avoid outdoor activity if the concentration of specific pollutants is high [34].…”

“…At once, reducing polluting particles by replacing motor vehicles is not the only crucial metric. From an environmental and health angle, users' exposure when traveling through highly polluted and noisy cities should be equally considered [13]. A user can opt for an e-bicycle or a traditional, more intense, and healthier one.…”

“…The effects of cyclists' ventilation are still poorly considered. If they are not considered, cyclist's exposure is underestimated, hiding the effects of parameters such as slope, travel speed, wind, and other parameters to the exposure rate to pollutants [13];…”

Ride in Peace: How Cycling Infrastructure Types Affect Traffic Conflict Occurrence in Montréal, Canada

“…The participants cycled alone on predefined routes for 87 h and for a total of 1199 km. This extensive mobile data collection allows us to maximize spatial coverage of the study area and ensure a diversity of urban settings [43]. All data collection days started and ended at the university, thus allowing researchers to stay in touch with the participants, provide support when needed and supervise the data acquisition process closely.…”

Understanding the Factors Affecting Pro-Environment Behavior for City Rail Transport Usage: Territories’ Empirical Evidence—Malaysia

“…Public transit usage by the public can increase the perceived behavioral control to maintain good health and the environment. Additionally, the concept of perceived behavioral control can refer to self-evaluation in terms of the environmental, health, and other issues which are contributing to pollution and congestion matter [47]. Previous studies [48] revealed different socio-demographic factors such as race, age, education level, and significant income have a relationship with awareness of using public transport on using public transportations.…”