Citizens of Europe need to move around – to be mobile – to live their daily lives. Going to work, shopping for groceries, working out at the gym, supplying goods and products, removing waste products – all of this requires moving from point A to point B. Countless movements are done every day, putting pressure on cities, citizens and the environment and influencing the way we structure urban areas. Urban Insight 2018 illuminates various aspects of mobility and accessibility to enhance our understanding of different social and physical structures. We explore how citizens view and use urban areas and how local circumstances can be improved to create more liveable, sustainable and mobile cities and communities.
The report Wholesome Air, Serene Cities – Reduced Noise and Air Pollution in Urban Areas addresses the relationship between the sources and levels of air and noise pollution in European cities. It provides recommendations that can make a perceptible difference to urban citizens and improve quality of life in urban areas.
E-commerce changes our shopping habits – but also influences logistics, city planning and properties. The impact will become more and more apparent as volumes continue to increase. The report Signed, Sealed, Delivered – Analysing the Impact of E-commerce on Urban Areas highlights the challenges arising from the increase of e-commerce in Europe.
The potential of bicycle and pedestrian travel in cities has been underestimated in past decades, resulting in deterioration of facilities and infrastructure. We are now seeing a revival of these active modes of transportation as more people recognise the health and environmental benefits. The report "Urban Mobility on a Human Scale – Promoting and Facilitating Active Travel in Cities" discusses ways in which walking and cycling can be further promoted and facilitated in our cities.
Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly popular, with more people looking for alternatives to petrol and diesel cars. However, fuel range anxiety and fear of congested charger points when travelling has had a dampening effect on growth. Is it possible to take a road trip across Europe in an electric car today? We put this to the test!
The report "Running to stand still – the role of travel time in transport planning" explores the concept of the travel time budget and its implications for urban planning.
We explore the potential of new and existing tunnels and bridges to reduce barriers and provide urban spaces and functions that improve quality of life in Europe.