Sustainable mobility – analysis of sustainable mobility measures in cities

Abstract

In interpersonal relationships, mobility is assumed as a sine qua non condition. It has been hazardous to the environment, the economy, and, consequently, society, to raise mobility dependence on the existing energy paradigm. The necessity to rethink all mobility paradigms and to develop more efficient and sustainable cities began in this context in order to address present societal needs without compromising future generations. In recent years, some of the most valuable tools used in this effort have been sustainable mobility plans, which have been adopted in several European cities. These plans are expected to be efficient ways to achieve relevant European goals, such as reduction of carbon dioxide emissions, one of the main causes of climate change. The authors illustrate state of the art sustainable mobility plans in three territories, designed to achieve more sustainable cities in the near future. The authors' main conclusions, in regard to achieving the goal of developing sustainable cities, are that there is an absence of a standard indicator for mobility measurement in cities, an important issue to address; it is necessary to use integrated push and pull measures in cities as a method to change people's behavior; and it is important to have a city network relating to best practices in mobility and urban planning.