Why a European Mobility Week?

Maybe you are one of the many Europeans who are worried about the transport situation in our cities and its impacts on quality of life: air pollution, noise, congestion, etc. And yet, the number of cars is increasing...

The European Mobility Week is an opportunity for everyone to show how this situation concerns him/her. For the organising authorities as well as organisations and associations it is a platform to promote their existing policies, initiatives and best practices related to sustainable urban mobility. Any activity raising awareness on the environmental impacts of everyone’s modal choice and encouraging the use of sustainable modes of transport is welcome. The result should be a full week of events around the theme of sustainable mobility in as many cities and municipalities as possible under an European umbrella.

The European Mobility Week then represents a perfect platform for citizens to learn about the challenges ahead and possible solutions, to know what the long-term strategy of their mayor is and to share their views on different local policies. It is the time to be heard!

When is the European Mobility Week?

The European Mobility Week takes place every year from 16 to 22 September. The 22 of September represents the highlight of the Week as the participating cities and municipalities organise the ‘In town without my car!’ day on this particular date.

Who can participate?

Official participants of the European Mobility Week are local authorities. The initiative is open to all cities and municipalities. They register as participants by signing the European Charter and agreeing by this to the main guidelines of the Week.

You, as a citizen in a participating city or municipality, are heartily invited to all activities organised there. Inform yourself about the offers and services of your local public transport system or test a new bus line. Find out whether there is a car sharing club, try the bicycle network or join the debate for the development of the new sustainable mobility plan of your city. Enjoy cultural and sports events, commuter challenges and other competitions, quiz games, etc. on car free streets during the ‘In Town Without My Car!’ Day.

And what are the benefits?

Take profit from the events organised in your city or municipality during the European mobility Week and test clean vehicles, infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians or public transport services. Maybe it is possible to integrate some of these new experiences in your everyday life? Then you will not only contribute to cleaner air, less noise and more space in your city, but also benefit from these improvements of the environment, save money you used to spend for fuel and be in good shape!

What are permanent measures and what are they for?

Permanent measures are any measures that contribute to a modal shift from the car to sustainable transport modes and stay in place permanently. Examples are the creation or enlargement of pedestrian areas, improvements of the bicycle network, installation of permanent access restriction to city centres, adoption of workplace or school travel plans, etc.

Why a commitment of the participating cities to implement such permanent measures?

They make the European Mobility Week campaign last a whole year long and remind people of the fact that less motorised traffic in town is possible. Permanent measures show that the commitment of the city or municipality does not stop at the end of the Week, and that the local authority, its politicians and its services are willing to invest in the future and in a new mobility culture.

Check the website of your city/municipality for the events and activities planned and contact the local coordinator if you want to contribute with your own activities.

For further questions, please don’t hesitate to contact your national coordinator or the European focal point.

Looking forward to meeting you at one of the thousands of Mobility Week events throughout Europe – from 16 to 22 September!