Walking is the healthiest, cheapest and most environmentally friendly means of transport. Furthermore, active mobility, such as walking and cycling, is an essential element in successfully transforming the transport sector and achieving sustainable urban mobility. Despite this walking is still a niche topic in Germany. Cities, towns and communities who are responsible for walking are calling for a clear commitment from the German government to promote and support walking. This English short version shows how a National Walking Strategy could contribute to strengthening walking. It sets out which shortcomings need removing, pinpoints possible targets and respective areas for action. The intention of the brochure is to make the general guidelines for a national walking strategy for Germany accessible to as many decision-makers as possible beyond the country’s borders. Presented is a selection of chapters from the original German document which we consider to be of particular relevance for those outside Germany with an interest in this topic.
How can projects for redistributing and repurposing public streets succeed? What can be learned from successful national and international examples? The brochure summarizes practical experiences of redesigning streets in favor of active mobility and the quality of life in cities. Good examples from Germany and Europe were examined using an evaluation matrix. Many show recurring success factors. The brochure presents nine key factors for successful street transformation that address specific aspects in the planning and implementation process. Municipalities and planners can use it to advance future projects more easily. Quelle: www.umweltbundesamt.de
There is a tension between research and practice in the field of cycling as well as in general in environmental policy. Numerous scientific publications and knowledge do not reach the practitioners who might benefit from them. Not only was the International Cycling Conference 2017 intended to tackle this deficit with a large-scale forum, but also this publication, which takes up and continues the discussion started there. The innovative concept of the triad, consisting of scientists, practitioners and experts, produces new perspectives. The authors come from all over the world, forming together an international mosaic that incorporates their particular perceptions and experiences.