The Quercus association is advocating for a national plan to develop public bike-sharing systems in Cabo Verde. According to a statement released on September 27, 2026, the association proposes the creation of more bike lanes, public bike-sharing systems, and a reduction in Value-Added Tax (VAT) for the purchase of bicycles. This initiative aims to promote sustainable mobility and encourage the use of bicycles as a mode of transportation.
Quercus recommends the development of a national network of official, safe, and continuous bike lanes that connect public bike-sharing systems, schools, train stations, bus terminals, and employment zones. The association also suggests eliminating hazardous routes and creating incentives for companies to promote bicycle commuting. By doing so, Quercus aims to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality in Cabo Verde.
The association has put forth ten measures to promote cycling in Cabo Verde. One of the key proposals is the introduction of tax benefits for companies that implement "kilometer-by-kilometer" systems, which compensate employees for commuting to work by bicycle. Quercus also emphasizes the need to enhance protection for workers who use bicycles for transportation, including insurance coverage for accidents that occur during commutes.
Quercus advocates for the integration of payment systems for public bike-sharing services. The association proposes a mandatory connection between different municipal and operator bike-sharing systems, using a unified regional tariff. This would enable users to easily access and pay for bike-sharing services across different areas.
The association also suggests integrating public bike-sharing systems with public transportation, allowing for combined passes that make shared bicycles the "last kilometer" of intermodal travel. According to Quercus, this would encourage the use of bicycles as a complementary mode of transportation, reducing reliance on cars and promoting sustainable mobility.
Quercus cites a study by EIT Urban Mobility and Cycling Industries Europe, which highlights the benefits of shared bicycles in European cities. The study estimates that shared bicycles generate 305 million euros in annual economic and social benefits, avoid 46,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year, and save 40 million euros in healthcare costs by preventing chronic diseases.
The association emphasizes that bicycles remain a fundamental solution for sustainable mobility, despite the focus on public transportation and electric vehicles. By promoting cycling and investing in bike-sharing systems, Cabo Verde can reduce congestion, improve air quality, and enhance the quality of life for its citizens.
Key points
- Quercus proposes a national plan to develop public bike-sharing systems and promote cycling in Cabo Verde.
- The association advocates for the integration of payment systems and public bike-sharing services with public transportation.
- A study by EIT Urban Mobility and Cycling Industries Europe estimates that shared bicycles generate significant economic and social benefits in European cities.
