Automatic rickshaw transport and environmental sustainability in developing cities: The moderating role of energy transition
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51867/ajernet.7.3.15Keywords:
Auto-Rickshaw Transport, Developing Cities, Energy Transition, Environmental Sustainability, Renewable Energy, Sustainable Urban MobilityAbstract
This study examined the relationship between auto-rickshaw transport and environmental sustainability in developing cities, with particular emphasis on the moderating role of energy transition. The Multi-Level Perspective (MLP) Theory of Sustainability Transitions, which describes how institutional, technological, and energy-system changes affect sustainable transport transitions, served as the study's compass. The study adopted a systematic desk review research design based on secondary data analysis of empirical studies, policy documents, and institutional reports from Tanzania, Africa, Asia, and other developing regions. Results showed that the use of autorickshaws is vital for low-cost urban transportation and for the last-mile connectivity but fossil-fuel use, an outdated fleet, congestion and poor regulation are major factors in pollution and environmental degradation. The study also revealed that energy transition via electrification, battery innovation, renewable charging systems, and policy reform can significantly enhance environmental sustainability, but electrification alone is not enough at fossil-fuel dependent electricity systems. Based on the study, it can be concluded that the key factor moderating the path of the auto-rickshaw transport is energy transition and in what way it will develop soon depends on how sustainable the energy supply is. The study suggests integrated transport-energy policy frameworks to support the transformation of autorickshaws in developing cities sustainably, including actions on electrification, renewable energy, charging infrastructure and policy changes.
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