Highlights from the 2024 European Week of Regions and Cities

The 2024 European Week of Regions and Cities took place in Brussels, Belgium from 7 - 10 October. The event attracted over 7 000 participants including policymakers, regional authorities, and mobility experts with discussions ranging in topics from SUMPs and digitalisation of transport, to green public transport initiatives aimed at reducing congestion and promoting active travel. With 156 sessions, 500 speakers, and an array of exhibitions, this event continues to be the largest annual platform dedicated to EU cohesion policy.

Broad themes emerging from the conference included the empowerment of communities, youth engagement, and climate neutrality, all of which have important implications for urban moibility. The Opening Session presented the 5^th edition of the EU Annual Report on the State of Regions and Cities, emphasising the role of cohesion policy in shaping Europe’s future and how local communities can contribute to EU enlargement. Another session explored meaningful youth participation in local decision-making, showcasing examples from various countries. Additionally, discussions on creating climate-neutral cities underscored the importance of public-private cooperation in urban planning. 

A selection of sessions particularly relevant to urban mobility are summarised below. 

Health-centred urban planning: Understanding the true cost

Another highlight was the session on "The True Cost of Unhealthy Urban Environments," which addressed the economic benefits of integrating health into urban planning. The discussion revealed how cities could save money by investing in healthier built environments. A practical tool developed by EIT Urban Mobility and the University of Lisbon was showcased, allowing cities to assess the cost-effectiveness of urban planning changes for improving public health.

Integrating mobility: Lessons from Porto

The "Setting the Standard for Sustainable and Integrated Mobility in the Porto Metropolitan Area" session offered valuable insights into how the new UNIR transport system is transforming the Porto region. Launched in late 2023, this road transport system connects 17 municipalities in the Porto Metropolitan Area, promoting greener and more integrated mobility. The session provided lessons learned from nearly a year of implementation and best practices that other EU regions can adopt.

Greener travel: Improving urban environments

Urban greenery took the spotlight in the "Greener Urban Travel Environments for Everyone" session. The ‘Green Travel’ project, funded by the European Research Council, examined how adding greenery to everyday travel routes can promote well-being and equity. Speakers from the University of Helsinki discussed research showing the benefits of integrating more green spaces into urban travel environments, underscoring the importance of environmental justice in urban planning.

For those who missed it, #EURegionsWeek continues with "EURegionsWeek Close to You" sessions running until 30 November, offering more opportunities for engagement. Key recordings and photo galleries are also available for revisiting key moments.

Author: Dearbhla Mullin

Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.