Biking, Walking, and Rolling towards Sustainable Cities:

Cities worldwide are grappling with the challenge of providing efficient and sustainable transport options for their citizens, particularly in the face of growing population densities. While motorized transport has long been the dominant mode of transport in urban areas, the negative impacts of congestion, air pollution, and carbon emissions have led many cities to rethink their transportation strategies. Non-motorized transport (NMT), including walking and cycling, is increasingly recognized as a viable and sustainable solution for cities with high population densities. NMT provides a healthy and environmentally friendly way to get around and can also reduce congestion, improve air quality, and enhance social interaction within communities. In this article, we will explore the importance of NMT in cities with high population density and discuss some examples of cities that have successfully prioritized NMT to improve mobility, reduce congestion, and promote sustainable development.

Relation between traffic, population density, and NMT

Traffic, population density, and non-motorized transport (NMT) are all closely related in urban areas. As population density increases, so does the demand for transport, which can lead to traffic congestion and increased emissions. Motorized transport, such as cars and buses, often exacerbates these problems, as they require more space and generate more emissions than non-motorized transport options like walking and cycling.

In cities with high population density, NMT can be a particularly effective mode of transport because it requires less space, produces no emissions, and can be faster than motorized transport in congested areas. By providing infrastructure for walking and cycling, cities can reduce traffic congestion, improve air quality, and create more livable urban environments. NMT can also promote physical activity, which can lead to health benefits and reduce healthcare costs.