Bologna wins European Mobility Week Award for sustainable initiatives

Last night, at the European Mobility Week Award ceremony, Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, presented Bologna with the European Mobility Week Award and Pěšky městem, a Czech association, with the Mobility Action Award.

Both awards aim to promote awareness of sustainable urban mobility and recognise outstanding initiatives implemented during the European Mobility Week in 2024.

The jury praised Bologna for making sustainable mobility more accessible through an impressive series of Car-Free Days during Mobility Week, information stands, and educational activities. Many local, private and citizen-led organisations were involved in events on sustainable urban mobility plans and the transformation of public space, which helped foster a sense of community ownership.

Pěšky městem impressed with a nationwide campaign promoting active mobility, involving 501 schools across 338 Czech cities. The initiative encouraged families to walk to school, highlighting health and environmental benefits.

Slovenian town Solčava received a special mention for its commitment to sustainable transport, proving that even small communities can make a big impact.

Apostolos Tzitzikostas, Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, said: "This year’s winners have excelled in designing vibrant, people-friendly public spaces which are not only green but also thriving hubs of community and connection. The finalists have demonstrated that popular tourist destinations can also serve local communities by promoting sustainable transport. Congratulations to all!".

During the European Mobility Week, which runs every year from 16 to 22 September, towns and cities can choose to host a car-free day, and activities to promote new infrastructure and raise awareness of sustainable mobility options. In 2024, over 2,700 towns and cities from 45 countries signed up. More than 900 businesses, educational institutions, civil society organisations, citizen initiatives and municipalities registered Mobility Actions.