What changes need to be made?
We are increasingly concerned about climate change issues and how urban planning plays an important role in it. Large cities have implemented sustainable mobility measures in recent years with the aim of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality and facilitating access to their urban centres, among other initiatives.
The increase in population and city growth has affected urban mobility worldwide due to the larger number of vehicles on the roads leading to traffic congestion, air pollution and stress among citizens. This situation requires significant changes in the way we plan, manage and move around cities.
1. Development of sustainable infrastructure
Efficient public transport
One way to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution is to encourage the use of public transport. If the city has an accessible public transport system with wide coverage, sufficient frequency and affordable fares, citizens will be more liable to opt for transport alternatives that help reduce their dependence on private vehicles to reach the city centre, saving time and money by using less fuel.
To achieve this, in addition to buses, trains, metros and trams being able to cover larger areas and operate more regularly, it is advisable to gradually upgrade theses transport fleets to electric or hybrid options that help reduce carbon emissions. Furthermore, it is important to design well-integrated public transport networks with easy transfers and inclusive access for the disabled, parents with pushchairs and cyclists, among many other common mobility needs.
Promoting active mobility
When we talk about active mobility we refer to those means of transport based on human energy, such as bicycles, scooters or walking. Encouraging cycling in the city centre requires adequate infrastructure, including safe cycle lanes and parking, as well as pedestrian areas. It is important to have extensive networks of protected cycle lanes connecting different points of interest in the city, together with streets and areas reserved for pedestrians to walk without fear of traffic.
Cities with optimised infrastructure also use technologies such as smart parking systems to encourage the use of these same sustainable modes of transport. These systems guide vehicles to alternative parking areas on the city outskirts, helping to reduce congestion on city streets and therefore stress. They also allow for better enjoyment of leisure activities by leaving space in the centre for other purposes.
2. Public policies
Incentives and subsidies
Governments and organisations can promote sustainable mobility with practices to help in the purchase of electric or hybrid vehicles, by offering reduced fares to encourage the use of public transport, or providing benefits to companies that promote shared transport, such as corporate buses or distance working.
Low emissions zones
By implementing low-emissions areas in cities’ most populated and busiest areas, it is possible to reduce the air pollution that harms both the environment and citizens and visitors’ health. The most common practices generally involve restricting access to certain areas for vehicles with high emissions and facilitating access for electric vehicles and non-motorised modes of transport.
Sustainable urban planning
Urban planning should be designed to reduce long journeys and encourage the use of sustainable transport. With transport-oriented development (TOD), areas can be designed that integrate both residential and office space as well as services near public transport stations. Similarly, mixed-use zones can be established with pedestrian areas providing access to retail, leisure and residential areas, reducing the need for private vehicles.
Urban parking guidance
3. Innovative technologies
Smart solutions such as parking guidance and control systems are increasingly being included among the various sustainable mobility initiatives. These emerge as some of the most effective solutions in the short term, and one of their main benefits is their ability to optimise parking in cities through the use of occupancy sensors, cameras and real-time data analysis algorithms.
Through the implementation of innovative technologies, it is possible to provide drivers with real-time information on parking availability, reducing the time vehicles waste driving around looking for free spaces. Users can plan their journeys knowing where they are most likely to park in advance, improving traffic flow on the streets and reducing both fuel consumption and pollutant emissions.
What’s more, monitoring systems provide relevant mobility data that can be used to further improve mobility planning and management in the city. This information can provide mobility and behavioural patterns with which to anticipate congestion problems and plan solutions in advance. All contribute to a better mobility experience and reduce the impact of travel on the environment.
Sustainable mobility needs joint collaboration between governments, businesses and citizens to develop healthier and more environmentally friendly cities. With the progressive implementation of the right infrastructure, public policies and smart technologies, it is possible to turn urban mobility systems into more sustainable models.
Urbiotica’s parking guidance and control systems are a short-term solution to optimise the use of space, reduce road congestion and promote the use of cleaner transport modes. These systems help create a more efficient transport network, while improving accessibility and quality of life in cities.
