On its 22th year celebrations globally, Türkiye is once again emerging as a leading participant in the European Mobility Week (EMW), a pan-European initiative aimed at enhancing urban quality of life by reducing carbon emissions, promoting sustainable transportation methods, and creating public spaces that prioritise people over cars.

From 16-22 September 2024, municipalities across Türkiye will organize events to promote sustainable transportation solutions, foster community engagement, and reimagine shared urban spaces. This year, EMW will feature active participation from a diverse range of stakeholders, including environmental NGOs, cycling groups, urban planners, and the private sector. Their involvement highlights a growing movement towards a more sustainable and inclusive urban future in Türkiye.

The Turkish Union of Municipalities (TBB), serving as the national coordinator, will lead the campaign with support from the Delegation of the European Union to Türkiye.

Jurgis Vilčinskas, the Deputy Head of the Delegation, stated that this year’s theme, “Shared Public Spaces,” and the motto, “Let’s experience the city together!” will promote more accessible, greener, and liveable urban environments. 

“The benefits of shared public spaces to the society are multiple. By encouraging the use of non-motorized transport and public transit, we all significantly cut down on noise and air pollution. Cleaner air and quieter streets contribute to vibrant communities and sustainable urban development. I commend the active engagement of municipalities, businesses, academic institutions, organisations, and local communities who are collaborating to improve public transport, promotingwalking, cycling and making shared public spaces openfor all,” he said.

Highlights of the EMW events across Türkiye: 

• Izmir Metropolitan Municipality will launch the week with a Bike to University event on 17 September 2024, with Mayor Cemil Tugay and Virve Vimpari, Head of Green Development and Inclusive Growth Section of the Delegation. 
• Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality will host another Bike to University event on 19 September 2024, with Mayor Tahir Büyükakın and Ramunas Janušauskas, Head of Section at the Delegation of the European Union.
• Istanbul Mayor Ekrem İmamoğlu, Uskudar Mayor Sinem Dedetas and Mr Vilcinskas will join the mobility festival and the concluding event on 22 September 2024, the World Car Free Day, in Uskudar Salacak Square. 

For more information: 

https://www.skupturkiye.org.tr/