EUROPEAN MOBILITY WEEK
European Mobility Weekis a European Union campaign held every year betweenSeptember 16-22, aiming to promote sustainable transportation solutions in urban life and invite people to try transportation options other than car use.
The main goal is to encourage cities and municipalities to support healthier, more livable, and eco-friendly transportation alternatives (walking, cycling, public transit, etc.) and to increase citizen awareness on this issue.
KEY INFORMATION AND HISTORY
Beginning: It started in 2002 as "In Town Without My Car!" day and over time increased in popularity to become a week-long event.
Organization: Carried out under the coordination of the European Commission, hundreds of cities (not only from Europe but from all over the world) officially participate in this campaign every year.
Theme: A special theme is determined for the campaign each year. For example, themes like "Zero-Emission Mobility for All", "Keep on Sharing", and "Safe Walking and Cycling" have been featured.
MOST IMPORTANT DAY OF THE WEEK: "CAR-FREE DAY"
The most notable and symbolic event of the week is "World Car-Free Day"celebrated onSeptember 22. On this day, a specific part of participating cities (usually a central street or square) is completely or partially closed to motorized vehicle traffic. It is celebrated as a day where people can walk freely in the streets, ride bicycles, and attend events such as concerts, walks, and street games.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES
Environmental Awareness: Creating awareness about reducing air pollution, noise pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Public Health: Supporting a healthier lifestyle by encouraging activity (walking, cycling) to combat issues like obesity and inactivity.
Quality of Life: Highlighting the importance of creating urban spaces that are quieter, safer, and have high social interaction without motorized traffic.
Showing Alternatives: Offering people the opportunity to personally experience the benefits of public transit, bicycle sharing systems, walking, and new transport modes like electric scooters.
Activating Local Governments: Encouraging municipalities to implement permanent projects (building bike lanes, widening pedestrian zones, improving public transit, etc.).
STATUS IN TURKIYE
In Türkiye, the Union of Municipalities of Türkiye coordinates the campaign. Every year, dozens of provincial and district municipalities organize various events within this week:
Bicycle tours,
Walking events,
Car-free street practices,
Interviews and seminars,
Bicycle and electric scooter distributions,
Various activities such as traffic training tracks for children are carried out.
Soru Sor
