Every move matters in the reshaping of global mobility

Credit: Tomorrow.Mobility World Congress

As our cities continue to grow, urban mobility has become a key challenge. While some cities require urgent digitalisation and others face housing problems, the need for better transportation is universal. Incessant urban population growth, rapid urbanisation and rising demand for transportation have put immense pressure on existing infrastructure and resources. However, by embracing innovative solutions and adopting sustainable practices, we can transform mobility patterns worldwide and create more sustainable systems – a critical goal, given that transportation is the fastest-growing source of pollution globally, accounting for a 23% share of global emissions in 2022.

We have many tools and alternatives to reshape our moving patterns. First of all, the key is widening our vision and adopting the vast array of options at our reach. Because optimising urban mobility means developing comprehensive multimodal transport schemes. This approach encourages the integration of buses, trains, trams, cycling and walking. Seamless connectivity between different modes of transport, combined with well-designed intermodal hubs, can improve the overall efficiency of urban mobility while reducing congestion and emissions. Smart technologies and mobile applications can provide real-time information, enabling commuters to plan their journeys more effectively.

But a new vision also means lifting our eyes from the ground that supports all of the existing transportation means, and the sky is the limit. One of the most promising advancements in urban mobility is Urban Air Mobility (UAM). UAM refers to the use of vertical take-off and landing aircraft (VTOLs) to transport passengers and goods within urban areas. By utilising the airspace above existing infrastructure, UAM has the potential to alleviate congestion on the streets and reduce travel times significantly. Moreover, electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOLs) will be powered by renewable energy sources, thus reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

But, at the core of all of these changes lies public transportation. Governments and city authorities must prioritise the improvement of public transportation networks, investing in infrastructure expansion and upgrading existing systems. Increasing the frequency and reliability of buses, trams and trains, and making them more accessible to all sections of society, can encourage a shift from private vehicle use to public transport. Integrated ticketing systems and contactless payment methods can enhance convenience and encourage greater public transportation usage.

We all need to move

But the shift that will really make a change is not technological but, rather, cultural: we citizens need to start moving. To create sustainable cities, we must encourage active modes of transport, such as walking and cycling. Investing in pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, developing safe cycling lanes and creating walkable neighbourhoods can encourage people to choose these healthy alternatives for short trips. Public awareness campaigns and education about the benefits of active transport can also change cultural norms and shift attitudes towards healthier modes of commuting.

The upcoming Tomorrow.Mobility World Congress, co-organised by EIT Urban Mobility and Fira de Barcelona, will address all of these challenges and gather the world’s top experts to find solutions and help to transform the way we move throughout the planet. Among the first speakers confirmed are Timothy Papandreou, CEO of Emerging Transport Advisors and former CIO of San Francisco MTA; Karima Delli, MEP and Chair of the Committee on Transport and Tourism at the European Parliament; Karen Vancluysen, Secretary General of the POLIS network; and Maria Tsavachidis, CEO of EIT Urban Mobility; and companies and institutions such as AMB, B:SM, Deloitte, Equinsa, FGC, Flowbird, Funkwerk, Hayden, Moventia, RACC, Renfe, Sener, and TMB.

The event will be held alongside Smart City Expo World Congress, the leading tradeshow and congress on cities and smart urban solutions; and also with the newly launched Tomorrow.Building, a forum focusing on the green and digital transition of buildings and urban infrastructures; and Tomorrow.BlueEconomy, a new event dedicated the challenges and opportunities of coastal cities and the blue economy. Altogether, the events are expected to gather over 1,000 exhibitors, including companies, cities, governments and institutions, more than 600 international experts, and over 25,000 attendees.

Because governments, city planners, and transportation authorities must collaborate with private enterprises, researchers and the community to bring about these changes, Barcelona and Tomorrow.Mobility is the place where all of them get together and start new joint projects and initiatives. From 7 November 2023 to 9 November 2023, we will work together in Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via venue to build cities where mobility is efficient, accessible and environmentally friendly. We must seize the opportunity to reshape transportation systems for a more sustainable world and ensure a brighter future for generations to come.