We will showcase innovative sustainable transport modes that are set to establish cohesive and resilient regional communities. Regions from all corners of Europe will demonstrate how they tackle social isolation in remote areas with green mobility solutions. Ensuring urban accessibility especially for the young, the old and the physically impaired highlights the importance of the political dimension of sustainable mobility systems, namely their impact on social inclusion and regional cohesion.
- Territorial | Maritime (oceans, coasts, islands) | Urban | Rural | Local and regional | INTERREG | EU/ European | Neighbours (ENI + IPA + EFTA + UK) | International | Energy | Climate and environment | Sustainable | Mobility and Transport | Cohesion | Social inclusion and Equality | Youth and citizens engagement | Digital and ICT | Industry, entrepreneurship and SMEs (enterprise/ startup/ business) | Research and Innovation
- Code: 08PW241788
- Rue Joseph II 14, Brussels, Belgium
Speakers
Moderator
Practical information
- When
-
Tue 08/10/2024, 14:30 - 16:00 CET
- Where
- Rue Joseph II 14, Brussels, Belgium
- Type of partnership
- Regional partnership
- Format
- CoR Political WorkShop
- Theme
-
Smart and sustainable growth for regions
- Language
- English
Partners
Reporting
Session summary
The session, held on 8th October 2024 at the Slovenian Permanent Representation in Brussels, was part of the European Week of Regions and Cities (EWRC). The event aimed to showcase how different regions across Europe are reducing gaps between urban and suburban areas through sustainable transportation solutions, aligning with EWRC's theme of "Smart and Sustainable Growth of Regions" and supporting EU cohesion policy.
Deputy Mayor Janez Starman of Koper, Slovenia, highlighted projects connecting the coastal area with remote regions through new cycling and transport infrastructure, focusing on sustainable urban mobility. Mr. Andergassen from the Tyrol-South Tyrol-Trentino regions presented the Brenner Digital and Green Corridor, addressing heavy congestion with decarbonization and digital traffic solutions. Teresa Jorge from Coimbra, Portugal, introduced the electric Metrobus, aimed at reducing transport disparities between Coimbra and its surrounding areas. Ewa Raczyńska of Łódź, Poland, detailed the LKA's green rail transformation, with a goal of 100% renewable energy by 2028 to power their trains, enhancing urban-suburban mobility. Nermina Kundic from Arnhem-Nijmegen, Netherlands, focused on behavioral changes and clean mobility networks, stressing the need for cooperation across governments and stakeholders. Julia Eikeland of Stavanger, Norway, presented the world's first zero-emission cruise ship, part of their TRAM project, improving access to urban areas from remote locations.
The session demonstrated how regions are using innovative, sustainable transport solutions to address local needs and foster smart growth. The discussions highlighted a strong commitment to reducing environmental impact while ensuring regional cohesion. Moving forward, the session encouraged cross-regional collaboration and the sharing of best practices to further enhance sustainable transport across Europe.
Key messages:
- Sustainable transportation is key to reducing disparities between urban and suburban or remote areas across Europe, contributing to both societal and environmental goals.
- Regions are integrating innovative solutions like electric mobility, decarbonization, and zero-emission projects to promote greener, more efficient transportation systems.
- Cross-regional collaboration and sharing of best practices are essential for addressing common challenges in sustainable transport and regional cohesion.
- Effective sustainable mobility requires not only infrastructure investments but also behavioral changes, with cooperation between governments, employers, and stakeholders being crucial for long-term success.
- Sustainable transportation solutions play a vital role in achieving the broader objectives of EU cohesion policy and the smart growth of regions.
