Car-sharing in Oslo

There are clear targets to reduce traffic related emissions and noise, as well as improve accessibility for travelers in Oslo. One way to address these challenges is to examine alternatives to private car ownership. Car-sharing is a good example of this type of alternative. Knowledge and experience from both Norway and abroad show that car-sharing can lead to a reduction in car-use because car-sharing members dispose of their cars, use cars less and/or delay the purchase of a car. Car-sharing is often chosen by members for financial and practical reasons, yet there are positive environmental outcomes as well. Most members in the Norwegian car-sharing organization Bilkollektivet are in their 30’s-40’s, well educated, financially stable and have access to public transportation. They are very satisfied with the service, which is positive in terms of the potential for an increased market share in Oslo. To achieve this, identifying new potential users, linkages to public transportation organizations and various forms of public support need to be considered.