NEWSLETTER

A Call for Expression of Interest by cities interested in joining the European Mission on Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities was launched by the Commission in November. Cities joining the mission will be at the innovation forefront in the transition towards climate neutrality, as envisaged by the European Green Deal. The initiative will involve local authorities, citizens, businesses, investors as well as regional and national authorities. Together, they will create 100 climate-neutral and smart cities by 2030, and ensure that these cities act as experimentation and innovation hubs, enabling all European cities to follow suit by 2050. Cities can respond to the call until 31 January 2022.

Approximately 6% of all transport emissions come from urban freight transportation. The new Urban Mobility Framework calls for more effective zero-emission city freight logistics to decrease this figure. The proposal sets out European guidance on how cities can cut emissions and improve mobility, including via Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans. The primary focus will be on public transport, walking and cycling. The framework also prioritises zero-emission solutions for urban fleets, including taxis and ride-hailing services, the last mile of urban deliveries, and the construction and modernisation of multimodal hubs, as well as new digital solutions and services.