CES-MED supports Establishing Bicycle Sharing Scheme in Beirut

Bike sharing may be a solution to Beirut's chronic traffic problems
05.06.2017

The Human Dynamics CES-MED project has been discussing the launch of a public awareness campaign on the feasibility of using bicycle sharing, and the importance of establishing special lanes for bicycles in Beirut and in the rest of Lebanon. The awareness campaign on bike sharing was part of the actions envisaged in the SEAP for Lebanon, prepared with the expertise of CES-MED.

Our Communication expert - Ms. Myriam Makdissi - discussed the final details of the promotions strategy for the "Beirut Bicycle Friendly City" initiative, which includes the construction of bike lanes and the establishment of the Beirut Bike Sharing System, in cooperation with the Municipality of Beirut and the NGO "Bike 4 all“. Two posters and an invitation for the launch event were prepared as part of the collaboration to encourage the adoption of bicycles as an environmentally friendly means of transport, to reduce congestion and environmental pollution.

On the day of the launch event, thousands of bicycles took part in a cycling tour to mark the start of the bike sharing-system in Beirut. CES-MED’s support was highly appreciated by the national partners and the presence of Mr Saad Hariri, Prime Minister of Lebanon, provided good awareness and media exposure for CES-MED’s achievements nationwide. Mr Hairiri participated in the bike ride and pledged to organise car-free days to prioritise cycling in the city. Around half a million cars clog Beirut's streets on a daily basis according to municipal experts, causing enormous traffic jams and contributing to air pollution. Currently, 10 stations and separate tracks for bicycles are available with plans to expand the bike-sharing service throughout Lebanon.