A Note on Adaptive Function-Based Models: The Case of Mobility

Abstract

I propose a model for classifying innovations related to a particular function – mobility. My analysis demonstrates that existing typologies related to functional economy (FE) remain imprecise when considering specific functions. I include a systems perspective, bringing collective needs into the discussion. More precisely, I highlight the fact that, due to the complex systems in which the transportation system is embedded, collective consumption, like vehicle-sharing systems and self-service schemes, becomes crucial when mobility issues are addressed. Indeed, the satisfaction of individual needs has an impact on collective needs due to traffic congestion and rivalry for the use of limited parking spaces. As a strategy driving sustainability, the FE calls for institutional change.

Keywords:

• functional economy
• mobility
• systems approach
• vehicle-sharing system

JEL Classification Codes:

• D20
• L80
• L91
• R40

Notes

¹ In the economic context, the throughput refers to “the flow of raw materials and energy from the global ecosystem’s sources of low entropy (mines, wells, fisheries, croplands) through the economy, and back to the global ecosystem’s sinks for high entropy wastes (atmosphere, oceans, dumps)” (Daly and Farley 2003).

² To “dematerialize” means to reduce the volume of materials used (inputs) in order to meet the needs of agents (output).

³ Household travel surveys from France (CERTU 2004) reveal that cars are parked on average 96 percent of the time – i.e., unused for mobility.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Marion Drut

Marion Drut is an assistant professor at CESAER UMR1041, AgroSup Dijon, INRA, Univ. Bourgogne Franche-Comté (France). The author is grateful to Alain Ayong Le Kama for his precious insights, as well as to an anonymous referee for his/her helpful comments.