Rome faces significant challenges in terms of traffic management and environmental impact on a daily basis. Sustainable transportation emerges as an indispensable solution to reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality and ensure a positive experience for both residents and tourists.
With its rich history and cultural heritage, Rome attracts millions of visitors every year, putting pressure on its transport infrastructure. Sustainable transport not only helps reduce the carbon footprint, but also offers economic and social benefits. Adopting less polluting transport systems can improve the livability of the city, reduce traffic congestion and promote healthier lifestyles. Below are some examples that we already find on the streets of Rome:
- Bicycles and Micro-mobility.
Rome is developing a network of bike paths to encourage the use of bicycles as a means of daily transportation. The “Roma Bike Sharing” service allows tourists to rent bicycles for short trips, thus reducing the use of cars and avoiding delays on some public transport. - Electric Public Transport.
The city has begun introducing electric buses into its public transport network, helping to reduce noise and air pollution. The plan is to expand the electric fleet in the coming years to cover a significant portion of the city’s lines. - Zero Emission Vehicles.
Rome is encouraging the use of electric cars through widespread charging infrastructure and tax breaks. The city is also promoting the use of electric vehicles for freight transport in the historic center, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. - Pedestrian Infrastructure.
Several areas of the historic center, such as the Imperial Forums and Trastevere, have been transformed into pedestrian zones, encouraging walking as the main means of transportation for tourists. These interventions also help preserve the integrity of historic monuments.
Implementing sustainable transport systems in Rome presents several challenges. These include adapting existing infrastructure, managing costs, and changing the travel habits of tourists and residents. Investing in sustainable transport can attract more responsible tourism, create new jobs, and improve the quality of urban life.
With far-sighted policies and the involvement of all actors from citizens to institutions to tourists, it is possible to create an urban mobility model that is efficient, inclusive and sustainable and that preserves natural and cultural heritage.
