Making a City is Walking It
A World Example of an Active Mobility Network
Copenhague, Dinamarca
Copenhagen, consistently ranked among the world's most livable cities, has achieved this recognition thanks to a determined commitment to active mobility: pedestrians and cyclists are kings of the city. Its extensive network of pedestrian streets and cycleways is a testament to the power of people-centered urban planning.
What is Copenhagen's pedestrian and cycle network?
More than simply building bike lanes and pedestrian streets, Copenhagen has created a culture of active mobility. For decades, the city has invested in transforming its infrastructure, prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists over cars. This has involved:
The creation of an extensive network of protected cycle paths, separated from vehicular traffic.
Pedestrianization of key streets in the city center.
The implementation of policies that discourage car use.
Promoting a culture of road safety and mutual respect among all road users.
Benefits that promote walkability:
Safe and accessible mobility: The city has managed to drastically reduce traffic accidents, creating a safer environment for pedestrians and cyclists.
Vibrant urban life: Pedestrian streets and cycle paths have become spaces for meeting, commerce and social activity.
Healthier cities: Promoting physical activity through walking and cycling contributes to improving cardiovascular health and reducing stress.
Pollution Reduction: Decreased car use has improved air quality and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Economic boost: Tourism and local commerce have benefited from a more attractive and accessible city.
Results
Copenhagen's commitment to active mobility has yielded notable results:
More than 50% of daily journeys are made by bicycle .
The city has one of the lowest traffic accident mortality rates in the world.
Air quality has improved significantly in downtown areas.
Tourism has experienced sustained growth.
These results demonstrate that investing in active mobility is a smart strategy for building more livable and sustainable cities.