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Easy move: Smoother Journeys, Better Cities, Happier Citizens

In 2023, we conducted group discussions on climate issues with 160 citizens from all over Europe to discuss about their views on 4 EU Missions, namely on:

  • Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities
  • Restore our Ocean and Waters
  • Adaptation to Climate Change
  • A Soil Deal for Europe

In this first engaging online panel discussion: “Easy move: Smoother Journeys, Better Cities, Happier Citizens”, our speakers focus on Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities, diving into the future of urban mobility.

The discussion covers the evolution of public transport in making our cities smarter, cleaner, and more liveable. It’s a chance to hear from those at the forefront of designing the future of urban mobility, understand challenges and opportunities, and discover how cutting-edge technology and policy can work hand-in-hand to create greener, more connected urban environments.

Joining us in the discussion:

  • Valentin Lungenstrass, Deputy-Mayor of Lyon, France
  • Philipp Rode, Executive Director & Associate Professor, LSE
  • Ivo Petrov, Citizen, Debating Europe’s Community
  • Alessandra Cardaci, Debating Europe, who will moderate the discussion

Together we explore the following collaborative solutions:

  • Inclusivity and Accessibility  How can cities ensure that improvements in public transportation are inclusive and accessible to all residents? Which are the main challenges hindering the process?  
  • Cultural vs. Technical Change in Sustainability: How can cities foster a cultural shift towards sustainability, similar to the transition seen in the Netherlands from car dependency to cycling? What strategies can help overcome citizens’ resistance to this shift? 
  • EU Policies and National Implementation: How can the EU support cities in taking the lead on implementing innovative public transportation solutions? 
  • Walkability, health, and air quality: What specific strategies and policies can be implemented to maximize the environmental and health benefits of an improved public transportation system? 

About the SSH Centre project:

The SSH CENTRE project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme under grant agreement No 101069529 and from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) under the UK government’s Horizon Europe funding guarantee [grant No 10038991].