Circular Bicycle Solution for Bike Sharing Inspired by RefurbishBike

A circular bicycle solution for bike sharing focuses on maximizing the use of existing resources and minimizing waste. Based on the RefurbishBike business model, such a solution can be described as follows:

1. Core Idea

A fleet of shared bicycles is created by repurposing and upgrading discarded or abandoned bicycles from urban areas. By refurbishing these bicycles, they are given a second life as part of a local rental fleet. The focus is on:

• Reducing resource waste.
• Extending the lifecycle of bicycles.
• Providing a sustainable and climate-friendly alternative to newly manufactured shared bikes.

2. Process and Key Elements

1. Collection of Bicycles
   Collaborations with local authorities, scrapyards, and organizations help gather unwanted or abandoned bicycles from cities.
2. Refurbishment and Reuse
   • The frames, wheels, and other components of the bicycles are repaired to ensure durability.
   • Unnecessary or complex parts (like external gears) are removed to reduce maintenance requirements.
   • Standardized parts are used to simplify repairs and replacements.
3. Local Integration
   • The fleet is tailored to local needs and operates from central locations, such as Hveensgade or Klostertorv in Aarhus.
   • The bicycles are made available to both tourists and residents as an affordable and convenient transport solution.
4. Operation and Maintenance
   • Regular inspections (e.g., performed by Daniel in RefurbishBike) ensure that the bicycles are always in excellent condition.
   • Local partnerships create job opportunities and contribute to socio-economic development by involving vulnerable groups in refurbishment and maintenance tasks.

3. Benefits of a Circular Bike-Sharing Solution

1. Environmental Gains
   • RefurbishBike’s LCA (Life Cycle Assessment) has shown that refurbished bicycles have up to 120 times lower CO₂ emissions compared to new bicycles. This significantly reduces the project’s overall carbon footprint.
2. Socio-Economic Value
   • The project supports integration and inclusion by creating employment and skill development opportunities for socially vulnerable individuals.
3. Economic Sustainability
   • Using recycled materials and bicycles reduces production and procurement costs.
   • Avoiding high-maintenance bicycles keeps operational expenses low.
4. Enhancing Tourism and Urban Life
   • Shared bicycles support regenerative tourism strategies by offering sustainable transportation options and improving the urban environment.

4. Scalability and Partnerships

This model can be adapted and scaled in various cities or regions depending on available resources and local needs. By collaborating with municipalities, NGOs, businesses, and organizations like the Cycling Embassy, the concept can be expanded and customized for different locations.

By applying the RefurbishBike model to bike-sharing, this circular solution is not only environmentally friendly but also economically and socially sustainable.

Contact

Niels Nyhus

Company mail: leje@refurbishbike.com
Direct mail: niels@refurbishbike.com

Company phone: +45 3136 2027
Direct phone: +45 4053 3070

Web: Refurbishbike