Sustainable urban transport takes centre stage for European Mobility Week

Around 3,000 towns and cities across Europe are participating in this year’s European Mobility Week, which started yesterday and will last until next Wednesday, the 22 of September. The 2021 campaign has been launched under the theme ‘Safe and healthy with sustainable mobility’, and will promote the use of public transport as a safe, efficient, affordable, and low-emission mobility option for everyone. 2021 is also the 20th anniversary of car-free day, from which the Week has grown. “A clean, smart and resilient transport system is at the core of our economies and central to people’s lives. This is why, on the 20th anniversary of the European Mobility Week, I am proud of the 3,000 cities across Europe and beyond for showcasing how safe and sustainable transport options help our communities to stay connected during these challenging times”, said Transport Commissioner Adina Vălean. For this landmark year, the European Commission has created a virtual museum showcasing the history of the week, its impact, personal stories, and how it links with the EU’s broader sustainability priorities. Elsewhere, activities around Europe include bicycle festivals, exhibitions of electric vehicles and workshops. This year’s event also coincides with a public consultation on the Commission’s ideas for a new urban mobility framework, and the European Year of Rail with its Connecting Europe Express train, passing through Bulgaria on 16 September.