Energy efficiency in urban mobility (EEUM): a multicriteria and multidisciplinary approach

Abstract

The transportation sector is one of the main consumers of energy produced in the world and is responsible for 40% of global emissions, which shows the urgency of reducing energy consumption by improving Energy Efficiency (EE) for transportation. This research aims to develop an Urban Mobility Energy Efficiency Index (UMEEI). The model is based on the ASI (Avoid-Shift-Improve) approach, which is anchored in three EE pillars: systemic efficiency, travel efficiency, and vehicle efficiency. The applicability analysis was carried out through a case study in the city of São Paulo (SP), Brazil, presenting the Urban Mobility Energy Efficiency Index (UMEEI) for this city. The model consisted of a hierarchy of criteria with 7 themes, 14 initiatives, and 29 attributes. The multi-criteria decision analysis method was used, using the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP). The Energy Efficiency in Urban Mobility (EEUM) model for São Paulo achieved an UMEEI of 0.542. The research contributed to the elaboration of a multidisciplinary Evaluation Model and the development of a UMEEI, which can be used as a control indicator for urban mobility actions. In practical terms, the research made it possible to pinpoint the priority initiatives that should be the focus of improvement policies in São Paulo. As it is a flexible tool, that allows new criteria to be removed or incorporated, it can be adapted for municipalities of different sizes.