Cyclurban

Impact of traffic restrictions on emissions at urban level

According to the IPCC there is unequivocal evidence that climate change is here affecting our everyday lives, our planet. The transportation sector contributes to almost 30% of energy related CO2 emissions and is still growing despite mitigation measures (taxation, new engine technologies, alternative fuels etc) due to infrastructure works, rising income and so on. Adequate knowledge of the sources of pollution, the measures necessary to restrict them and the special characteristics of the urban area is a prerequisite to developing effective mitigation policies, protecting human and environmental health. The main aim of the Cyclurban project was to focus on measures and actions to enhance cycling in municipalities by analyzing the special characteristics of their infrastructure, policies and procedures and by helping them formulate strategies. The results clearly indicated that: The various emissions scenarios studied indicated that brave and severe traffic restrictions are needed to reduce significantly emissions of GHG and ozone precursors. It was found that an almost 50% reduction in all types of vehicles (passenger cars, high duty vehicles) would be more effective.
In order to enhance cycling in the municipality and national level, measures to restrict traffic as well as citizen education actions are needed. Removing the habit of using a passenger car for every type of trip requires serious upgrade of the public transport and cycling/walking infrastructure as well as targeted promotional and educational activities towards citizens of all ages and categories.