We talk about sustainable mobility when we move in such a way that we take care of the environment, the idea is not to pollute or not to pollute as much as we currently do, to improve the air quality of the cities where we live or visit as tourists. Today, many travelers choose destinations that are within a reasonable distance to go in their own vehicle or places where they can easily move around to see as much as possible in the time available. This is where smart parking plays an important role.
Mobility challenges in tourist destinations
There are certain tourist destinations that have more traffic problems precisely because of their attractiveness, usually historical centers, places by the sea or near natural parks. More traffic means more complications in finding parking, especially in high season, which generates traffic jams and inconvenience for both tourists and those who live in the area.
Too much traffic makes getting around by car slow and complicated, wasting time on commuting, in addition to time wasted driving around looking for a place to park. This generates stress and frustration among drivers or travelers approaching places of interest on tour buses, resulting in a bad experience that has its own economic and reputational impact.
We must not forget the air and noise pollution caused by having so many vehicles circulating unnecessarily in the same area, which is a nuisance for the neighbors who have to coexist with this chaos, and for the health of all the people who are there.
Smart parking uses interconnected technology that provides real-time data to enable users to find free spaces faster, as well as providing parking authorities with useful information to better manage available spaces. Through the use of detection devices such as cameras and sensors, mobile applications and platforms equipped with advanced algorithms, these solutions make it possible to analyze occupancy data and guide users.
Tourist buses
How smart parking attracts responsible visitors
The idea of “responsible tourists” refers to those who travel trying not to pollute, make noise or disturb. They tend to choose destinations where it is easy to get around without damaging the environment, for example, where there is an efficient public transport network or bike paths to ride on. If they drive, they prefer well-organized parking areas that also allow them to plan their trip.
In addition to the many benefits to the tourist destination of implementing smart parking systems, whether in mobility, health or sustainability, these initiatives also convey a clear message regarding the values and concern of the city to take care of both the planet and its citizens and visitors. This makes it easier for users to act responsibly.
1. Less pollutant emissions
As mentioned before, smart parking solutions have a big impact on air pollution in cities. Several studies have shown that up to 30% of urban traffic is due to cars circling in search of a parking space, causing more traffic jams, noise and emissions of polluting gases such as CO2. In the short term, we can already reduce the number of vehicles that circulate unnecessarily for so long and, therefore, pollution.
Electric vehicles and bicycles
Smart parking solutions can be configured for any type of parking space, including those reserved for charging electric vehicles, whether private or public, such as tour buses. This feature facilitates the transition to more sustainable alternatives. In addition, smart control systems provide valuable data to urban planners. They can allocate areas with less demand to other uses, such as bike lanes for tourists to travel safely.
3. Decentralization of tourism
Intelligent parking guidance and control systems help to better organize where vehicles are best placed to park, and can prevent parking spaces from being concentrated in the city center by showing availability in more remote areas where traffic does not build up. In the right spots, they need to be well connected, especially with public transport or other mobility options, circulation can be more balanced.
Success stories of cities with smart parking
1. Valletta, Malta
Valletta had traffic problems in the city center due to the number of tourists visiting in high season. A Controlled Vehicle Access (CVA) system was implemented with detection sensors at strategic points to capture real-time data on the occupancy of available parking spaces and guide tourists to free spaces. The experience of tourists and locals improved considerably.
Ibiza, Spain
Ibiza receives more than 2 million tourists a year, so it decided to implement an intelligent guidance system to solve congestion problems in La Marina. Eighty-five detection sensors were used to cover the available spaces in the area and a variable signage panel to show the number of free spaces at all times. The solution has succeeded in reducing traffic and increasing vehicle turnover, which benefits commerce.
Tips for implementing smart solutions in tourist destinations
To get the most out of the smart parking systems to be implemented in the city, including in tourist areas, it is key to detect the most vulnerable points in terms of excessive traffic and accessibility problems. Depending on the needs of the city and the environment, the most appropriate IoT-based devices would be chosen to cover outdoor or indoor parking.
The ideal is to choose well-connected locations so that tourists arriving at the destination by car can use buses, subways or bicycles, among other options, to move from one point to another in the city. It has to be easy, without too many combinations, and with a constant flow so that the combined mobility is profitable and they do not lose too much time. At Urbiotica, we have the infrastructure to implement our smart parking solutions anywhere in the world. Our devices are designed to work autonomously and combine with each other in order to cover different scenarios and needs. We help improve urban mobility, making it sustainable, and the overall experience of visitors looking to enjoy their days off.
