In the flatlands of the Netherlands, where tulips bloom and windmills turn, another iconic sight dominates the landscape: bicycles. The Dutch have long embraced cycling as a mode of transportation, weaving it seamlessly into their daily lives. But beyond convenience, the widespread adoption of biking in Dutch cities has led to profound environmental and health benefits that ripple far beyond its borders.

According to a recent report by the World Economic Forum (@WEF), the Dutch reliance on bicycles for urban transportation has resulted in significant reductions in air pollution and CO2 emissions. In fact, the emissions savings from cycling are so substantial that they are equivalent to planting a staggering 54 million trees each year.

Let’s unpack this remarkable statistic. By choosing bikes over cars for short trips within cities, the Dutch are drastically reducing their carbon footprint. Unlike motor vehicles, bicycles produce zero emissions, making them a clean and sustainable mode of transport. As a result, the air quality in Dutch cities is markedly better compared to many urban centres around the world where cars dominate the streets.

The implications of this shift towards cycling extend beyond environmental conservation. Air pollution is a silent killer, responsible for an estimated 3.7 million premature deaths globally each year, according to the same report by the WEF. By reducing air pollution through increased cycling, the Netherlands is not only mitigating the risk of respiratory diseases and other health ailments but also saving lives.

This cycling revolution in the Netherlands serves as a powerful example for cities worldwide grappling with issues of pollution and congestion. It demonstrates that investing in cycling infrastructure and promoting bike-friendly policies can yield substantial dividends in terms of public health and environmental sustainability.

As we look towards a future where urbanisation continues to accelerate and the need for sustainable transportation solutions becomes increasingly urgent, the Dutch model offers invaluable lessons. By prioritising cycling as a primary mode of urban transportation, cities can pave the way towards cleaner air, healthier communities, and a more sustainable planet for generations to come.

In conclusion, the Dutch ride bikes not just for convenience, but as a conscious choice to safeguard the environment and protect human health. Their commitment to cycling sets a shining example for the world, reminding us that sometimes, the simplest solutions can yield the greatest impact.

Let’s pedal towards a greener, healthier future together.

Source: @WEF

On the streets of Europe’s iconic cities, a revolution is quietly underway. From Paris to Barcelona to Brussels, authorities are spearheading diverse strategies to combat congestion and pollution, reclaiming urban spaces for their original purpose: as vibrant hubs of human interaction and activity.

In an insightful piece titled “Bollards and ‘superblocks’: how Europe’s cities are turning on the car,” Guardian writers Jon Henley, Stephen Burgen, and Lisa O’Carroll delve into the multifaceted approaches adopted by European cities to tackle the pressing issues of traffic congestion and environmental degradation.

The article paints a vivid picture of a continent grappling with the legacy of car-centric urban planning. Most European cities, steeped in history and designed long before the automobile era, once thrived as centers of diverse human endeavors. However, the mass proliferation of cars in the 20th century transformed these vibrant spaces into mere conduits for vehicular traffic, stripping away their vitality and charm.

Today, confronted with the urgent imperatives of curbing air pollution, mitigating the climate crisis, and enhancing residents’ quality of life, European cities are charting a new course, with innovative strategies deployed to recalibrate the balance between cars and alternative modes of transportation.

In Paris, under the stewardship of Mayor Anne Hidalgo, a pioneering spirit prevails. Bold initiatives such as the closure of major thoroughfares to traffic, the expansion of bike lanes, and the implementation of low-emission zones have led to a remarkable decline in car usage. Hidalgo’s vision of a “15-minute city,” where daily needs are within walking or cycling distance, embodies a transformative approach to urban planning.

Similarly, Barcelona has embarked on a journey towards sustainable mobility under the guidance of forward-thinking leaders like Ada Colau and Jaume Collboni. The city’s innovative “superblock” scheme, which prioritises pedestrians and cyclists over cars, reflects a commitment to reclaiming public space for communal use. Despite challenges, such as high car density and entrenched cultural attitudes, Barcelona remains steadfast in its pursuit of a greener, more livable urban landscape.

Meanwhile, in Brussels, efforts to reduce car dependency are gaining traction despite bureaucratic hurdles and fragmented governance structures. Through a combination of traffic-calming measures, pedestrianisation initiatives, and investment in public transport, the city is making significant strides towards a more sustainable future.

However, the journey towards car-free cities is not without obstacles. Resistance from vested interests, cultural attachments to car ownership, and institutional inertia pose formidable challenges. Yet, as evidenced by the experiences of Paris, Barcelona, and Brussels, concerted action and visionary leadership can catalyse profound transformations.

As Europe’s cities embrace a future less reliant on cars, they offer a glimpse of what urban life could be: vibrant, inclusive, and environmentally sustainable. By prioritszing people over vehicles, they are not only reclaiming their streets but also reimagining the very essence of urban living.

In the face of our global challenges such as climate change and urbanisation, the actions of cities matter more than ever. Europe’s cities are leading by example, demonstrating that a future without cars is not only possible but essential for building thriving, resilient communities. As the tide turns against car dependency, it is time for our cities to heed the call and embark on their own journey towards a more sustainable urban future.

Source:
Title: Bollards and ‘superblocks’: how Europe’s cities are turning on the car
Authors: Jon Henley (Paris), Stephen Burgen (Barcelona), Lisa O’Carroll (Brussels)
Publication Date: Mon 18 Dec 2023
Publisher: The Guardian

PWS Signs have completed the design, manufacture & installation of a new solar powered Low Bridge Warning system and signs for Fingal County Council at the N3 underpass near Mulhuddart in Dublin. Due to its low clearance (2.6m) there has been a long history of motorists  ignoring the existing low bridge warning signage with vehicle strikes occurring regularly. There were also daily disruptions to traffic flow due to over-height vehicles having to reverse away from the bridge.
 
Fingal County Council commissioned PWS to design & install a solar powered Overheight Vehicle Warning system on both approaches to the underpass. The signs are activated by a solar powered Infra-Red detection stations located in advance of the underpass approaches & any vehicle in excess of the 2.6m clearance height is immediately detected by the IR station. A radio signal is sent to the signs which activates the signs to display a warning message TURN BACK NOW in both Irish & English in sync with Amber LED flashing beacons at the top of the signs.      
Since going live, the signs have proven very effective in helping to prevent vehicle strikes and the ensuing traffic disruption which was a regular feature of this location.