Building Better Cities:
Urban planning and design play a pivotal role in shaping sustainable mobility outcomes. With transportation accounting for a quarter of global energy-related CO2 emissions, according to the International Energy Agency, cities are under pressure to rethink their approach to mobility. Investing in public transit infrastructure and prioritizing active transportation modes like walking and cycling can lead to significant emissions reductions. Compact, mixed-use developments with access to public transit have been shown to slash vehicle miles traveled (VMT) by up to 30%, according to the Urban Land Institute.
Why It Matters:
The urgency of sustainable mobility extends far beyond environmental concerns. Transportation is a major contributor to global CO2 emissions, driving climate change and air pollution. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), it’s responsible for an estimated 4.2 million premature deaths annually. Air pollution from transportation is a leading cause of respiratory diseases and premature deaths worldwide. By prioritizing sustainable transportation modes, we can reduce emissions, improve public health, and create more inclusive and equitable cities for all.