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The News and Events tab serves as a central hub for all the latest updates, news, and upcoming events related to the platform and the broader mobility landscape in Ireland. It aims to keep users informed about relevant developments, activities, and opportunities within the realm of mobility and transportation.
Event
Location: County Laois, Leinster, Éire / Ireland
The National Sustainable Mobility Forum is coming up soon! The 2024 edition of this annual event will build on the progress of the SMP Action Plan in the past year. The Department of Transport is committed to its vision of a 50% reduction in transport emissions by 2030 as part of Ireland’s 2050 climate-neutral goal. The forum brings together a diverse group of stakeholders, including local authorities, transport agencies, academia, advocacy groups, youth groups, and the business community, to tackle the pressing challenges of these ambitious targets. The full-day event will include an academic peer review, a youth-focused session, and a focus on community-led climate action around transport. Following the event, a detailed report will be produced to summarize the forum's outputs, which will be shared with attendees and used to inform policy development at a national level. As an additional note, look our for Eamon Ryan TD, Minister for the Environment, Climate, Communications and Transport, launching the Sustainable Mobility Academy platform during the welcome for the day!
News article
Dublin City Council (DCC) has joined the Partnership for Healthy Cities, working with the National Transport Authority (NTA), ADAPT, and Trinity College Dublin (TCD) to improve the monitoring of the city's active travel investments using advanced technologies. This collaboration aims to produce data to guide future infrastructure decisions and enhance walking and cycling options in Dublin. The project will develop an Active Travel Data Toolkit to systemize data collection, replacing ad-hoc methods. It begins with analyzing active travel schemes like the Clontarf to City Centre and Kilmainham to Thomas Street corridors, using new detection technologies. Insights from these analyses will inform a toolkit to support policy-making and active travel project implementation citywide. This initiative is part of a global effort led by the Partnership for Healthy Cities, supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, the World Health Organization (WHO), and Vital Strategies, to reduce noncommunicable disease risks and improve urban health equity. Dublin's involvement in this partnership was highlighted at the Partnership for Healthy Cities Summit in Cape Town, showcasing the city's commitment to health and safety improvements through enhanced active travel infrastructure. For more information about the project, click here .
News article
Dún Laoghaire's 'Living Streets' scheme, designed to enhance pedestrian and cycle access while limiting vehicle traffic, has been greenlit by council members after extensive deliberation, culminating in a vote of 30 to 7 in favour following after a marathon council meeting that stretched past 2 AM. This €20 million project includes specific interventions such as the installation of modal filters on Tivoli Road, Cross Avenue, and Clarinda Park West, as well as the pedestrianisation of parts of George’s Street Lower, Sussex Street, and Convent Road. Critics of the plan raised concerns about potential negative impacts on local businesses, the scheme's accessibility for people with disabilities, and the potential for increased traffic on adjacent roads. In response to these challenges, amendments were made to incorporate an independent review covering traffic levels, economic, environmental and other impacts, two years post-implementation. The scheme's approval reflects a significant commitment to reshaping urban mobility in Dún Laoghaire, earmarking €9.8 million of the total budget for construction costs, with the remainder allocated to staffing and contingency plans. This initiative underscores the complexities of urban transformation projects, particularly the need to balance improvements in public space accessibility with economic sustainability and inclusivity concerns. Read more about the project and public response here .
News article
The National Transport Authority recently published its results from the largest survey of walking, wheeling, and cycling undertaken in Ireland to date. The survey found that these three modes of travel take 680,000 cars off of roads each day in Cork, Dublin, Galway, Limerick, and Waterford. Active travel activities are also responsible for an economic benefit across the five cities of more than €3bn annually. This survey, incorporating opinions from Cork, Galway, Limerick/Shannon, Waterford, and Dublin, shows that over half of the adult population walks frequently, with a keen interest in increasing their walking, wheeling, and cycling activities. Public support for increased government spending on active travel infrastructure is notably high, reflecting a strong desire for improved and safer conditions for pedestrians and cyclists. The benefits of active travel extend to public health, preventing 5,844 serious health conditions annually and saving costs equivalent to 1.6 million GP appointments. Environmental gains are also substantial, with a reduction of 160,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions, akin to preventing 2.2 million flights from Dublin to London. The article underscores the public's preference for better footpath surfaces, more green spaces, and segregated cycle paths to enhance active travel experiences. These findings advocate for a strategic shift in urban planning and transportation policies towards prioritising active travel, supported by public demand for better infrastructure. Such initiatives align with the government's vision of reimagining cities as safer, cleaner environments, focusing on the wellbeing of communities over car dominance. This underscores the critical role of active travel in achieving sustainable mobility and environmental goals, encouraging professionals in the field to drive forward these initiatives for a healthier, more sustainable Ireland. For more information, see here . The 2023 Walking and Cycling Index is available here .
News article
The 2023 Walking and Cycline Index was published in partnership with Sustrans and NTA across five different cities. Key findings from the Walking and Cycling Index include: In all the Metropolitan Areas in the state, more than half of adults walk five or more days a week, while at least 15% cycle once a week, while approximately one in two residents want to walk or wheel more, and approximately a third would like to cycle more There is a high level of support for more government spending on walking and wheeling, ranging from 74% in the Dublin Metropolitan Area to 68% in the Waterford Metropolitan Area There is a similar level of support for spending on cycling noted, ranging from 77% to 61%, this contrasts with support for more government spending on driving, ranging from 40% to 24% across the 5 Metropolitan areas Each year people walking, wheeling, and cycling in our Metropolitan Areas when they could have driven, prevents a total of 5,844 serious long-term health conditions, the cost saving to the HSE is equivalent to 1,600,000 GP appointments. The annual economic benefit from people walking, wheeling and cycling to individuals and society in the five Metropolitan Areas each year is over €3bn. The report also found that walking, wheeling and cycling saved a total of 160,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions across the 5 Metropolitan Areas, equivalent to 2,200,000 flights from Dublin to London. The Walking and Cycling Index, the biggest assessment of cycling in urban areas in Ireland and the UK, is produced by sustainable transport charity Sustrans in partnership with city authorities. More information here: www.nationaltransport.ie/publications/walking-and-cycling-index-2023-publication-reports/
Event
Location: Online
Interested in AI and how it can be used in your local authority? Join BABLE Smart Cities and Jonathan Reichental, Ph.D., Author of Smart Cities for Dummies , Former CIO of the City of Palo Alto, Founder of Human Future, and Professor at the University of San Francisco, in our upcoming webinar "AI for Cities: Transforming Local Governance in 2024." Designed specifically for city officials, decision-makers, and urban innovation enthusiasts, this webinar promises to be a cornerstone for those looking to integrate AI into the fabric of local governance. With BABLE's commitment to fostering sustainable and innovative urban environments, we're excited to showcase how AI applications are not just theoretical concepts but real-world tools accelerating positive change. From enhancing public services to improving efficiency and decision-making processes, the potential of AI in urban settings is vast, but also complex. The webinar will include Real-world examples of AI enhancing urban life. Actionable insights for decision-makers on harnessing AI's potential. Strategies for practical AI application to tackle urban challenges head-on. This interactive session will be a place for sharing experiences, asking questions, and discovering the practical steps to implement AI in your city. Whether you're exploring AI or seeking comprehensive strategies, these insights will help you move forward. Note: Registration is required to participate. Sign up here!
News article
UN-Habitat has put out a call for case studies demonstrating climate actions in cities for the Annex of the World Cities Report 2024 to be submitted by 28 March! The World Cities Report (WCR) 2024 aims to enhance understanding of how cities and human settlements can significantly contribute to combating climate change, in line with the Paris Agreement's goal to limit global warming to 1.5°C. The report will focus on urban climate actions integral to achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13 and that are supported by partnerships as outlined in SDG 17. 30 case studies will be selected from around the world within the categories of adaptation to climate-related hazards, urban design and planning for sustainable cities, multilevel governance for climate action, sectoral interventions and resilient infrastructure, building the resilience of vulnerable urban populations, innovation for inclusive climate actions, and financing interventions for climate change in cities. The objective of the Annex is to provide city-level decision-makers and stakeholders with a collection of effective climate action strategies to enhance urban resilience and contribute to reducing climate change impacts. The intended impact is to increase knowledge on implementing climate actions in alignment with the New Urban Agenda, National Determined Contributions (NDCs), and Agenda 2030, boosting urban resilience through the dissemination of best practices and success factors. The SSMA team is happy to support submitting applications for smart and sustainable mobility use cases to be added to this report. If you would like to submit your case, please fully fill out the use case template on the Sustainable Mobility Academy platform and we can move the case forward from there. For more information, check out the Call for case studies . If you have any questions about uploading your use case, please read our Platform User Guide or reach out to sma@bable-smartcities.eu !
News article
Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan T.D. and Minister of State Jack Chambers T.D. have announced a strategic investment plan for the nation's transport infrastructure, amounting to a total of over €517 million. This initiative, administered through Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), focuses on enhancing the national roads network and expanding greenway projects throughout Ireland. The plan underscores a commitment to sustainable mobility and the improvement of infrastructure to support economic development and community well-being. Key financial allocations include: €412 million for major national roads projects, aimed at both new constructions and the upkeep of existing networks. €33 million designated for the routine maintenance of the national road network, ensuring safety and longevity. €72 million allocated to support the development of 70 Greenway projects, which aim to complete significant paths like the Limerick and Waterford Greenways in 2024, alongside initiating the first section of the Midleton to Youghal Greenway. These investments are part of a broader strategic approach, adhering to the National Development Plan 2021-2030 (NDP), which seeks a balanced investment in transport against other governmental priorities such as housing and health. The focus on national roads includes progressing on several key projects like the N5 Ballaghaderreen to Scramoge, M28 Cork to Ringaskiddy, and others, along with by-passes and relief road schemes aimed at enhancing the quality of life in communities by reducing congestion and traffic. On the greenways front, the funding is anticipated to deliver approximately 65km of new paths in 2024, with additional planning decisions expected to pave the way for further expansions. This is in line with the government's commitment to promoting cycling and walking as healthier, more sustainable alternatives to car usage, reflected in the broader Programme for Government commitment of €360 million per annum dedicated to walking and cycling infrastructure. For more information and a list of supported projects, click here .
News article
Ireland's shift towards sustainable transportation in 2023 is marked by a significant 45% increase in electric vehicle (EV) registrations, indicating a strong move away from traditional, less eco-friendly vehicles. Diesel vehicles saw a continued decline in popularity, with only 22% of new cars being diesel, down from 27% in the previous year, showcasing an evolving consumer preference towards greener alternatives. The overall car market experienced a 16% growth, with electric cars now representing 19% of all new cars, up from 15% in 2022. This trend underscores the increasing demand for sustainable travel options, highlighting a critical moment for stakeholders to focus on policies and infrastructure that support the adoption of electric and eco-friendly vehicles. Read more here: www.irishtimes.com/business/2024/01/17/electric-car-registrations-rose-45-in-2023/
Event
Register for the Smarter Places Training Course hosted by BABLE Smart Cities! We all want a thriving place to live, work and play. The world’s leading places are realising their economic growth and climate action success by embracing innovation. Urban and rural authorities continuously need to change and update their policies, processes and infrastructure for citizens and business to grow. New technologies are enabling places to quantify how resources are being utilised, supporting stronger policy interventions, more efficient outcomes, and encouraging positive behavioural change. Learn from experts who have supported the most innovative local authorities from around Europe and the UK in delivering impactful smart programmes. Whatever your specialist interest – urban mobility, energy transition, 15-minute or liveable neighbourhoods, climate actions, innovation zones, test beds – this course will give you a bedrock of smart insights, skills, and tools to start and run your own programme. 8 May 2024: Smarter Places & AI for Cities (Module 1) – Strategy, scope and vision come together to help shape your plan, by identifying drivers, the intended impact, and the stakeholder helix you will need to engage with. We’ll also ensure your data strategies, governance and risk management add integrity and insight to the decision-making process in a context where AI is reshaping our relationship to place. 15 May 2024: Innovative Financing & Procurement (Module 2) – Alternative funding options, leveraging private public partnerships, and the role and styles of procurement all influence your programme’s outcomes. 22 May 2024: Innovation District & Ecosystems (Module 3) – Identifying and building partnerships with innovation actors, learning from the EU's Smart Specialisation approach, and using Challenge Funds as a tool to mobilize innovation across your local area to support economic growth. 22 May 2024: Smart Solutions for Climate Action (Module 4) – Best practice smart decarbonization solutions for energy, mobility, waste, industry, food and how to access them from the market; data-driven carbon management. 29 May 2024: Citizen Participation & Living Labs (Module 5) – Co-creation process for sharing best practices, engaging with stakeholders, and the design and implementation of Living Labs all support your local ecosystems of innovation and growth. Learn at your own pace and in your own way Connect from your home or office 4 x live interactive online sessions, workshops, breakouts, and tasks Personal and team reflection Peer learning Recorded sessions to support future learning Who takes this course? Effective collaboration is to successful places and this course is intentionally designed for public, private and third sectors to learn from each other in taking more ownership of their smart transition, and better understand the competing needs, challenges, and perspectives. Pricing Public sector, academia, and community £950/1050€ (+ VAT where applicable) until 31 January 2024 (super early bird discount). £1050/1200€ (+ VAT where applicable) until 29 February 2024 (early bird discount). £1200/1400€ (+ VAT where applicable) after 1 March 2024 (full price) Private sector £1200/1400€ (+ VAT where applicable) until 31 January 2024 (super early bird discount). £1300/1550€ (+ VAT where applicable) until 29 February 2024 (early bird discount). £1500/1700€ (+ VAT where applicable) after 1 March 2024 (full price) Payment options to confirm your place Credit card on registration (an invoice will be emailed so please provide your organisation's name and address on the registration form) Purchase Order (please provide your organisation's name and address on the registration form and we will email you an invoice) Discounts: Every 4th signup from the same organisation is free. We are sometimes able to offer partial sponsorships depending on need and impact for public sector employees. For additional information and to register for the course, click here .
News article
In 2024, Ireland will allocate €290 million to enhance its active travel infrastructure, with total funding since 2020 exceeding €1 billion. This allocation targets around 800 active travel projects, adding to the over 600km of infrastructure already established. The investment supports the government's objective to improve walking, cycling, and wheeling facilities nationwide. A €20 million portion is designated for the Safe Routes to School Programme, aimed at increasing safety and accessibility around schools. This funding is part of a broader effort to encourage sustainable travel habits and achieve national goals for health and environmental sustainability. The initiative's focus is on expanding and securing infrastructure for active travel across Ireland. More information about the funding and specific projects funded can be found here: www.nationaltransport.ie/news/a-record-e1-billion-investment-by-government-since-2020-to-prioritise-safe-walking-and-cycling-for-people/
Event
Location: Munich, Bavaria, Germany
The 5th call for visitor cities to a city visit in Munich is open! Munich is hosting the ASCEND General Assembly and cities interested in visiting can apply to attend with the Scalable Cities support programme. The conference is an opportunity for visitor cities to gain insights into the activities and achievements offered by the ASCEND project. Additionally, there will be a site visit in the demonstration district of Harthof. Key topics for the visit: From Positive Energy Building to Positive Energy District Upscaling of pilot projects within the own city/Governance innovation Funding and new business models Transition from a Fellow to a Lighthouse city Digital transformation Monitoring and evaluation More information on the conference and project, as well as for registration, can be found here .