EU mobility week launched

13th edition of European scheme to promote alternative means of transport to cars launched 

Five local councils have joined almost 2000 European towns and cities in launching European Mobility Week, which will include a series of activities to highlight the importance of alternative forms of transport to cars.

46% of Maltese people are concerned about ‘urban problems’ such as traffic jams and green spaces, a Eurobaromater survey showed earlier this month. This is significantly higher than the EU average of 23%.  Concern on urban problems is now the second highest Maltese environmental concern, after air quality. Yet the majority of the survey’s respondents also believe that the government is doing its bit to protect the government.

“While we have a lot of work left to do, the government is pleased that so many Maltese people care about protecting the environment,” Environment Minister Leo Brincat said. “Legislations to combat climate change and reduce noise pollution are currently in the drafting phase.”

“The absolute majority of Maltese people also agree that protecting the environment can actually help economic growth,” Brincat said.“This should help dispel the old myth that there exists a tug of war between environment protection and development.”

The 13th edition of the European initiative, this year's theme is 'Our Streets, Our Choice', with the focus being on citizens reclaiming their environment from traffic.

Local councils and NGOs proposed a number of different schemes and events to raise awareness about alternative forms of transport, including public transport, bicycles and walking. Schemes include a ‘car free day’, the subsidising of bus fares from Valletta for a day, the closing off of some streets for traffic, and a Malta National Bicycle Ride. Participating cyclists will be encouraged to donate €10, which will benefit the Community Chest Fund.

Vice president of the EU Commission of Transport Siim Kallas said that around €1 billion were lost last year due to traffic congestion, over and above the health costs.