Highlights from the SMARTA-NET Final Conference: Shaping the future of rural mobility

On 23 and 24 October 2024, the SMARTA-NET Final Conference in Brussels gathered experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from across Europe for engaging discussions on rural mobility. Focusing on sustainable and inclusive transportation solutions, the two-day event showcased innovative practices, identified key challenges, and mapped a path forward for rural communities.

Keynote themes: Empowering rural mobility through collaboration and innovation

The first session began with a plenary presentation by Brendan Finn from MemEx, highlighting SMARTA-NET's achievements, including the development of tools and resources in multiple languages, the establishment of a European Rural Mobility Network, and the launch of the SMARTA-NET website as a knowledge hub. During an interactive "World Café" session, participants explored the potential of demand-responsive transport, the integration of cycling into rural transit, and the role of mobility hubs as more than just transfer points. The takeaway was clear: meaningful progress in rural mobility requires tailored, location-specific solutions. 

Policy Roundtable: Shaping the future of rural mobility with pragmatic policy actions

Moderated by Brendan Finn, the afternoon panel brought in key voices such as Katerina Litou from the Municipality of Platanias, Greece, and Miguel Calado from Portugal’s Intermunicipal Community of Litoral Alentejo. Panelists discussed strategies for reducing car dependence in rural areas, from revitalising village amenities to creating demand-responsive transport services. They noted that full electrification of rural car fleets by 2030 is unlikely, calling instead for smart resource use and selective fleet management. Significantly, the panel underscored the need for Europe to secure rural transport programmes through ongoing policy work backed by specific funding lines.

Day Two: Deep dive into urban-rural connectivity and tourism mobility

Sessions on the second day explored urban-rural linkages, with speakers like Alexandra Correia from the Alentejo Regional Development Agency sharing examples of successful local initiatives. One notable presentation discussed flexible transport services—including summer beach shuttles—offered by Alentejo to meet the needs of both residents and tourists. The discussions highlighted the importance of location-specific mobility solutions and advocated for a European framework that respects regional diversity while ensuring mobility rights in rural areas.

Another crucial point was sustainable tourism. Presentations by Vasilis Myriokefalitakis from Rethymno, Greece, and Raitis Sijats from the Greenways Association in Latvia showcased innovative mobility models, such as e-mobility options and cycling paths repurposed from disused railway lines. These initiatives support "car-free tourism," encouraging low-impact travel choices and reinforcing rural areas as accessible, sustainable destinations.

Closing Reflections and future prospects

The conference ended with the recognition of how complex rural mobility is, including its unique demands. According to Helen McHenry of Ireland's Western Development Commission, data-driven approaches are necessary to understand rural transit needs better, such as the Sustainable Mobility Index for Rural Towns in Ireland. Collectively, panelists urged an integrated approach that would bridge the urban-rural divide, leverage technology, and spur community-driven solutions. 

For further resources and insights from the SMARTA-NET project, visit SMARTA-NET’s website. 

Author: Anna Vasilenka

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