Picture: Flickr - Copyright 350.org

Since 2002 European Mobility Week focuses on a particular topic related to sustainable mobility, the so-called focal theme. Local authorities all over Europe are required to organise activities for their citizens based on this theme. They are also encouraged to launch and promote permanent measures that support the theme. This year 16 to 22 of September is marked as European Mobility Week. Also Innovation Circle Networl members such as the city of Suwalki in Poland will take part in this event with local actions. “We usually organize the day without cars in Suwalki and our president Czesław Renkiewicz takes part in it”, explained Ewelina Suchocka, coordinator of Suwalki for the Trans in Form project.

But the Mobility Week is not limited to Europe, this year even Montreal in Canada is taking part as well as cities in Japan and even Taiwan. In Austria there are even more than 500 participants registered and in Spain more than 400.

Sustainable urban mobility can be achieved through an integrated planning approach that takes into account all modes of transport in cities and their surrounding areas. Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs) define a set of interrelated measures that bring you step-by-step closer to meeting the mobility needs of citizens and business, while enhancing the quality of life in your city. SUMPs aspire to balance environmental quality, economic development and social equity. 

The European Commission (EC) has adopted an Action Plan on Urban Mobility to accelerate their take-up in Europe. It helps local authorities to develop SUMPs by providing guidance material, promoting best practice exchange, identifying benchmarks, and supporting educational activities for urban mobility professionals.

A great resource for cities thinking of developing and implementing SUMPs is www.mobilityplans.eu. Here you will find guidance documents, access to training and good examples to make the journey that bit easier. Take advantage of this support to get your city moving in the right direction today.

Join cities across Europe and the world, demonstrate your commitment to implementing sustainable mobility initiatives and register for European Mobility Week. If you are thinking about taking part, be sure to check this year's Thematic Guidelines to get some campaign ideas on how to start moving!

 

Why should your city develop a Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan?

  • A higher quality and attractiveness of the urban environment
  • Lower greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption
  • Improved accessibility for all
  • Improved safety and security
  • Reduced air and noise pollution
  • Transporting people and goods more efficiently and more cost-effectively