Cities Use Zero-Emission and Car-Free Days to Promote Cleaner Mobility
Cities across Europe are highlighting cleaner and more inclusive transport as World Zero Emissions Day and Car-Free Day take place during European Mobility Week 2026.
European Mobility Week runs from September 16 to 22 each year. Its 2026 theme, “Mobility for Everyone,” focuses on intergenerational fairness and the need for transport systems that serve people at different stages of life.
From Zero Emissions to Car-Free Streets
World Zero Emissions Day takes place on September 21, followed by Car-Free Day on September 22.
World Zero Emissions Day encourages people, organizations and governments to reduce fossil fuel use and consider the emissions generated by everyday activities.
Meanwhile, Car-Free Day allows cities to temporarily restrict motorized traffic on selected streets or in neighborhoods. These areas can then host walking and cycling activities, community events, play spaces and public discussions.
As a result, residents can experience how streets could function when they are designed around people rather than vehicles.
Transport Emissions Remain a Challenge
Transport accounts for almost one-quarter of Europe’s greenhouse gas emissions. Road transport also produces more than 70% of emissions from the transport sector.
Moreover, EU transport emissions increased by an estimated 0.7% in 2024 compared with 2023.
Cleaner vehicles and alternative fuels remain important. However, cities are also investing in public transport and active mobility to reduce dependence on private vehicles.
More than one-third of new urban buses registered in the EU in 2024 were battery-electric, according to the European Commission.
Cities Expand Clean Transport
Rome is investing in electric public transport through an order for 411 battery-electric buses. The purchase also includes a ten-year maintenance agreement.
Similarly, Zagreb is combining electric buses with low-floor trams, solar-equipped depots and smart charging systems. These investments are expected to contribute more than half of the city’s transport-sector emission reductions by 2030.
In addition, Bologna has updated its Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan. The plan aims to expand an integrated, low-carbon transport system across the metropolitan area.
Managing Urban Traffic
Urban vehicle access regulations are another tool available to cities. These measures include low-emission and zero-emission zones.
Such regulations can restrict access for the most polluting vehicles. They can also encourage cleaner fleet renewal and reduce residents’ exposure to traffic-related pollution.
Together, these measures show how cities can combine cleaner vehicles, public transport, active mobility and traffic management. The approach supports the wider goal of making urban transport cleaner, safer and more accessible across generations.
