The Johannes Kepler University Linz (JKU) is one of Austria’s leading universities, known for its modern, spacious campus on the outskirts of Linz. While the location offers green spaces, a lively academic atmosphere, and a large campus, it also presents a challenge: accessibility.
Many students and staff face long commutes, and driving to campus is often the most convenient option—but also the least sustainable.
🚗 60% of the university’s CO₂ emissions come from transportation—a major issue that Maria Buchmayr, Head of the Sustainability at JKU, is determined to tackle.
Her solution? Among other initiatives, the introduction of Pave Commute in May 2024—an app that not only rewards sustainable commuting but actively encourages it.
The Challenge: A Mobility Shift for a Large Campus
JKU faced several key challenges when it came to sustainable transportation:
✔️ Long Commutes – Located outside the city center, many travel long distances.
✔️ High CO₂ Emissions – With 60% of campus emissions caused by transportation, action was needed.
✔️ Behavior Change – People were open to alternative commuting options, but they lacked motivation and a tool to connect with others.
The Solution: Gamification & Rewards for Sustainable Commuting
Pave Commute was introduced at JKU to make sustainable commuting more attractive while fostering community engagement. By leveraging gamification, challenges, and rewards, the app motivates users to switch from driving alone to biking, public transport, walking, or carpooling.
What Made Pave Commute So Successful at JKU?
✅ Friendly Competition – Leaderboards and challenges made commuting fun. Who logs the most CO₂-free miles? Who tops the weekly rankings?
✅ Rewards & Prize Drawings – Monthly challenges with great prizes kept motivation high.
✅ Strong Infrastructure – JKU offers covered bike parking, lockers, showers, rental bikes, repair services, and even car-sharing for bad weather days.
✅ Clear Communication – The launch was promoted via newsletters, campus events, and digital outreach.
The Results: Impressive CO₂ Reductions & Engaged Commuters
🚴 Biking is King at JKU – Regardless of season, cycling remains the most popular commuting option. Thanks to excellent bike-friendly infrastructure, ridership stays high year-round.
🌍 Real Climate Impact – An estimated 3 metric tons of CO₂ are saved every month through sustainable commuting.
💚 A Stronger Community – Sustainable commuting has become a shared goal—and when someone wins a challenge, the entire team celebrates!
The Takeaway: A Model for Universities & Companies
JKU Linz proves that sustainable mobility works when the right incentives are in place. Pave Commute provides an innovative, engaging, and measurable way for organizations to promote greener commuting habits.
This case study highlights how Pave Commute can be a game-changer—not just for universities, but for any company looking to improve employee mobility, engagement, and sustainability.
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