Cyclescore: a new environmental and societal display to guide cyclists towards responsible purchasing.

What is Cyclescore? A key indicator for sustainable cycling.

Inspired by environmental labels already well-established in other sectors (Nutriscore for food, energy labeling for household appliances), Cyclescore assesses the environmental and societal impact of new bicycles. Launched in 2024 with the support ofADEME andAFNOR, this new indicator assigns a grade ranging from A (exemplary) to E (high impact), making it easier for consumers concerned about the origin and manufacturing conditions of their bicycle to choose.

A clear, easy-to-understand display that highlights the efforts of manufacturers committed to more responsible production.

Photo Credit - Quentin Chaumy

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How can Cyclescore help cyclists and professionals better understand the impact of bicycles?

Each bike is given an overall rating, based on two main pillars: the ecological footprint and the manufacturer's societal commitments. These criteria make it possible to compare models and encourage best practices in the industry.

1. Environmental impact (50% of score)

The aim is to assess the bike's ecological footprint throughout its life cycle, focusing on manufacturing, transport and product durability.

• Type of materials used (aluminum, steel, carbon, etc.): Steel and aluminum, more easily recyclable and often sourced locally, are favored over carbon, whose production is more polluting and recyclability more complex.
• Origin of frame and components: A bike designed with a frame and components made in Europe or France will emit less CO₂ than a bike whose components are imported from Asia, not least because of long-distance transport.
• Energy used in manufacturing: Industrial production requires energy, the source of which can vary: the manufacture of a frame has less impact if the plant uses renewable energy rather than fossil fuels.
• Distance covered by components before assembly: The further components are manufactured from the assembly site, the more greenhouse gas emissions they generate during transport. Cyclescore recognizes bicycles whose parts are produced and assembled locally.
• Bicycle durability and repairability: Cyclescore takes into account the manufacturer's warranty, the availability of spare parts and the ease with which the bicycle can be maintained or repaired. A repairable model reduces its impact by limiting the need for replacement.
• Particular attention to batteries: Electrically-assisted bicycles (EABs) are evaluated on the nature of their batteries, a crucial factor in terms of ecological impact. Lithium batteries are preferred if they come from a responsible source and can be recycled at the end of their life.

2. Societal impact (50% of score)

A sustainable bicycle is defined not only by its environmental impact, but also by the conditions under which it is produced. The Cyclescore therefore includes criteria relating to respect for workers and the social commitments of companies in the sector.

• Respect for social standards (ILO conventions): The label recognizes manufacturers who respect the conventions of the International Labor Organization (ILO), guaranteeing dignified working conditions, the prohibition of forced labor and protections for employees.
• Factory working conditions: Brands that source from factories that guarantee a safe and fair working environment score better (pay, working hours and social protection).
• Inclusion and diversity policies within companies: Cyclescore favors companies that implement concrete actions to promote diversity, gender equality and the integration of workers with disabilities.
• Sustainable mobility initiatives for employees: A company that encourages its employees to adopt more environmentally-friendly transport solutions (company bicycles, soft mobility bonuses, telecommuting) benefits from a higher score.

Thanks to this dual assessment, Cyclescore gives consumers a better understanding of the overall footprint of the bikes they buy. The system aims to encourage the industry as a whole to adopt more responsible practices, both ecologically and socially.

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A label for informed choice and a more sustainable industry.

Thanks to this display, consumers can easily compare bicycles on environmental and social criteria, and not just on price or technical performance. This encourages more informed and responsible consumption.

Cyclescore is based on a voluntary approach, open to all manufacturers wishing to evaluate and enhance their practices. For them, it's a major lever of differentiation: a good score highlights their commitment to sustainable development and strengthens their position in the ecological transition. What's more, some are already calling for public subsidies for bicycle purchases to be made conditional on a good Cyclescore, in order to encourage more responsible production.

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Towards an essential standard for sustainable cycling?

The Cyclescore marks an important step in the structuring of a more virtuous bicycle industry. By making responsible production efforts visible, it encourages the entire industry to reduce its carbon footprint and improve its social practices.

With the gradual adoption of Cyclescore by the major players in the market, it could well become an unavoidable standard, like eco-labels in other sectors. For consumers, it's an opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable future.

Find out more on the ADEM websiteE

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