Transportation

Implications - The increasing necessity of bikes in urban areas -- both for economical and environmental reasons -- has led to cities going further than adding bike paths in their approaches to urban planning. Instead, architectural projects are accommodating bike usage in their designs in ways that are both creative and aesthetically attractive. These enhance the quality of life for bike users, and show an acceptance that these design shifts must occur in order for urban environments to keep up with the habits of rising populations -- working towards minimizing eco and traffic-related footprints. [More]

Implications - While urban technology is making the transition to more green energy, city infrastructure is taking even larger steps towards shrinking its carbon footprint through proactive air purification. Taking advantage of the buildings and vehicles that are prevalent within cities anyways, smart technology is being adapted alongside these elements to counterbalance the pollution often associated with crowded downtown city centers. The shift towards active air purification denotes a paranoia in health-conscious consumers who demand cleaner environments for themselves and their families. [More]

Implications - As solar technology becomes more advanced, durable and scalable, its integration into consumer-friendly products has become more prevalent. This product integration particularly suits the lifestyle of the outdoor adventure connoisseur. The niche use of this technology shows that eco-consciousness is applicable to many different lifestyles as it becomes a general priority for those of all walks of life. [More]

Implications - Hybrids have become a common form of eco-friendly transportation, however the next wave of green driving does not require consumers to charge their automobiles or purchase additional accessories. Autos made of recycled materials provide a more convenient, less demanding method of green driving. This speaks to a need for a smoother transition into environmentally friendly living. [More]

Implications - A challenge those in the auto industry are currently facing is boosting car ownership in metropolitan areas. As a result, specialty automobiles and car-related services specifically for city dwellers is observed. This becomes all the more important when one considers that Millennials -- large in numbers and just entering the age of disposable income -- tend to skew more toward city living. [More]

Implications - Moving away from the compact "supercar" model, electric vehicle manufacturers are introducing eco-friendly options with more space. These offerings are not only more accessible; they also speak to the growing levels of conscious consumption among families. Consumers today increasingly champion their values through their purchasing decisions, and this tendency extends to parents who "perform" sustainability for their children, using products and services as a way to lead by example. [More]

Implications - Electric car manufacturers are improving their vehicles by offering wider range in mileage. As eco vehicles become mainstream, auto brands seek to offer as many features and performance enhancements as possible to stay competitive, leading to a new benchmark in the industry. Affluent consumers are making sustainability a priority, but not at the expense of performance. [More]

Implications - The push towards convenience and the rise of the peer-to-peer economy has resulted in an onslaught of "on-demand" services easily accessible by mobile. Beyond ridesharing, these services cater to other transportation uses, such as vehicle maintenance. This shift speaks to the growing desire for instant gratification among consumers, as well as the way personal devices are enhancing mobility. [More]

Implications - Electric transportation is entering the mainstream, both in terms of public transit, as well as personal mobility outside of the auto industry. Consumers' eco consciousness is quickly evolving into a sense of eco responsibility, even amongst those who aren't vehicle owners. This progression speaks to a new, action-oriented consumer, who is using even the minutia of their daily routines to champion their values. [More]

Implications - Luxury auto brands are adapting their vehicles to comply with changing consumer expectations around eco-consciousness. In addition to exploring electric avenues, many automotive brands are opting for alternative sources and methods of harnessing energy while maintaining as light a weight as possible. Beyond sustainability, the premise of such concepts speak to a desire to better and more successfully navigate congested urban environments. [More]