Karin Edberg

The research project studied how social practices interrelate with policies aiming to reduce climate change and energy demand. Of particular importance was also the investigation of how energy-related practices are framed, and how new standards are born.

More specifically, the project provided insights into how electric bikes have made, or not made, their way into the streets and into the practices of citizens, what “e-biking” supersedes and how it is framed by different actors – in terms of environment, climate, comfortability, health, economy or something else.

The outcomes of the project contributed to a deeper understanding of challenges and opportunities included in the energy transition towards a more energy efficient, less fossil fuel dependent, society by discussing how policies and every-day practices co-work.

Two separate but related lines of data collection were applied in the project:

• the individual/everyday use and framing of e-biking.
• context and surrounding actors (policy makers, governmental authorities, interest organisations among others).

Both the everyday experiences and the societal and physical context were thus captured, and the individual perspective was coupled with the societal and long-term. Diaries and interviews composed an important part in the first line of data collection while the second line relied mainly on interviews, relevant policy documents and statistics.

To meet current climate challenges, a shift towards a more transport-efficient society is needed.

Micromobility solutions (light, low-speed electric or muscle-powered vehicles and walking) are more space-efficient than cars and produce less emissions and noise. However, as urban micromobility expands and diversifies at a rapid pace, including more vehicles of different types, diverse rhythms and increased electrification, many municipalities experience inadequate infrastructure. Regulations and policies have not kept pace with the rapid growth and differ between municipalities, and conflicts arise in the urban realm.

The project engaged with what is required of urban planning to meet future needs for the planning, governance and implementation of urban micromobility. The aim was to design new approaches and strategies, through collaboration with urban planners in different municipalities, to steer the development of cities towards more energy-efficient transport solutions.

Cultural heritage processes are currently gaining traction in relation to the decommissioning of nuclear facilities. Who are the key actors in these processes and what stories are taking shape? (2021-2024, JPI/VR)