Sustainable mobility emerged as a pivotal concept in the last few decades, driven by the need to address environmental concerns, reduce congestion, and improve overall quality of life. While the focus on sustainable transport often centres around environmental impact and energy efficiency, road safety plays an equally crucial role in shaping the future of mobility. Achieving sustainable mobility requires a holistic approach that not only considers the environmental or economic aspects but also prioritises the safety of road users.
Sustainable transport systems are human-centric – they are planned by focusing on people first. When precedence is given to people over anything else accessibility (rather than mobility alone) is improved, and streets are considered as spaces (rather than just as another piece of infrastructure). This approach focuses on slowing the movement of vehicles rather than catering for increased speeds.
The EU has embarked on the Vision Zero policy, where EU member states have committed to reducing the number of road deaths to zero by 2050. A human-centric approach is required to achieve such road safety targets, contributing to liveable communities and healthier lifestyles. People are happier when they live in communities in which their safety and wellbeing are prioritised. Moreover, the feeling of safety motivates people to engage in active mobility which refers to non-motorised means of transportation such as walking and cycling. More pedestrians and cyclists in the streets encourage other people to join, contributing to the phenomenon of safety in numbers.
Pedestrianised streets, as well as slow streets (with a maximum speed not exceeding 30 km/h), allow for active travel to take place safely. Streets with such characteristics experience an increase in footfall and bicycle use and encourage micro-economies to flourish. Success stories with such streets have been reported in several cities, including Montreal, Brussels, Milan, Paris, Barcelona and London.
Furthermore, sustainable mobility practices work with inclusivity in mind. This means considering the needs of all individuals, including pedestrians, cyclists, and people with disabilities. Accessible infrastructure, clear signage, and urban planning that applies the principles of sustainability contribute to a safer and more inclusive transportation system. Priority should be given to vulnerable groups including children, elderly people and persons with disability. Academic research also shows that women are considered vulnerable because they tend to be the main carers in a family and are more likely to travel shorter distances, possibly accompanied by children (who might also require a pushchair), as well as elderly relatives. If the concepts of equity and justice are applied the streets become usable and safe for everyone.
Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. The authorities have the obligation to provide safe streets, that are just and equitable. People need to be responsible when using the streets, starting with the individual who is driving a car, the car passenger who might be distracting the driver, the bus user who is crossing the road after alighting from the bus, the cyclist and also the pedestrian.
Responsibility involves slowing speeds, keeping our eyes on the road and avoiding substance abuse or drinking alcohol and driving. Slow speeds save lives because drivers have more control over their vehicles, they have more reaction time to avoid accidents, they are more alert, and they have a wider vision of the road. Furthermore, it is important to limit mobile phone use and any other distraction, such as eating, when on the road. This festive season and always, think about safety first. Let’s all work together to have safe, secure and equitable roads for all!
Dr Therese Bajada - Chairperson of the Road Safety Council