Final answer:
The benefits of a bike-sharing scheme include increased physical activity, cost savings, less congestion, and environmental gains. Its success in a country depends on infrastructure, culture, and support. Subsidies for urban transit make economic sense and promote transit use.
Step-by-step explanation:
The benefits of a bike-sharing scheme to individuals include increased physical activity, cost savings compared to owning a vehicle, decreased traffic congestion, and environmental benefits due to reduced carbon emissions. For societies that are dense and transit-oriented, these benefits often outweigh the costs, contributing to both social and economic advantages. For example, cities with a high cost of living could see a reduction in transportation expenses for residents. On the other hand, cities facing issues with traffic congestion could experience improved traffic flow and air quality. Whether such a scheme would work in a particular country depends on several factors including urban infrastructure, cultural disposition towards cycling, and government support. Subsidies for urban transit, like the provision of free transportation for students, not only make economic sense but also encourage the use of public transportation systems. However, the success of a bike-sharing scheme is contingent on proper planning, implementation, and ongoing management.