Walkable cities are the future

A walkable city is a city in which residents can genuinely choose whether to use public transport, walk, cycle or drive. They can cycle or walk to the grocery shop, work or school. A walkable city promotes sustainable mobility, without preventing car use.

Why should a city be walkable?   

Walking and cycling have the lowest carbon footprint of all modes of transport – no matter how smart vehicle technology becomes. Walkable, diverse city centres attract talent to Espoo, which strengthens Espoo’s vitality. A physical environment that creates activity and connections between people is the basis for a good life. 

How is a city made walkable?   

European cities have traditionally been very walkable, but in recent decades activities have become more segregated. Distances between places in people’s daily lives have increased, which has led to increased use of cars in Europe, including Finland.   

We all have our daily mobility needs. So why are we talking about promoting walkability in the context of the physical urban environment?   

Studies have shown that the physical environment influences people’s behaviour. We cannot directly influence people’s mobility choices, but we can create a city that encourages walking. A functional, pleasant, green and safe urban environment is a prerequisite for walking.   

Aiming for a good life for Espoo’s residents 

  A high-quality urban environment is good to walk in. The promotion of walking is in everyone’s best interest, as even people who travel by car or bus walk part of the way. Everyday life based on sustainable mobility creates well-being and cuts our carbon footprint. Walkable cities are the future because they are economically, socially and ecologically sustainable.