Veronika Mitterwallner, a sports ecologist at the University of Bayreuth, spoke with MIT Technology Review about her study on the environmental impact of mountain bikes, including those with electric drives. Mitterwallner explained that her interest in the topic arose from both personal reasons, having spent time mountain biking in natural environments, and from a desire to establish a factual, evidence-based foundation for the discussion surrounding the topic.
Despite cycling being generally considered environmentally friendly due to low CO2 emissions compared to cars, Mitterwallner explains that mountain biking takes place directly in natural ecosystems and thus interacts more directly with soil, vegetation, and wildlife. Disruptions caused by mountain biking can have positive effects on biodiversity; however, Mitterwallner noted that creating a trail for the first time poses particular problems as the vegetation is destroyed, and the soil is compacted and partially removed.
The increasing popularity of electric mountain bikes is a new concern, as the electric motor allows cyclists to go faster, longer, and further. Though electric mountain biking could allow for greater access to natural systems, it may also result in more sensitive areas becoming damaged. The potential negative effects of electrified mountain biking are more likely when driving off-road, which is easier with an electric motor than without.
Communities looking to build a mountain bike trail should consider repurposing existing paths to prevent further landscape fragmentation. Mitterwallner also suggests that previously used areas, such as former ski slopes or back roads, could be suitable for mountain biking. When considering building a trail in a protected landscape area or sensitive habitats, nature conservation reports can assess whether the construction is likely to endanger protected animal and plant species.
Mitterwallner explains that it is difficult to rate whether mountain bike trails are worse than those used for hiking or running, as it is challenging to separate their effects and analyze individual behavior. Although many cyclists see themselves as ecological road users, Mitterwallner notes that it is crucial to be considerate of the natural and social environment when moving, taking into account the possible effects of road construction and the consumption of raw materials for the vehicles.
In conclusion, while mountain biking is not inherently environmentally friendly, studies show that outdoor sports such as mountain biking can increase ecological awareness, which can positively impact both sporting and everyday behavior towards the environment.
