Reacción a "If cities imitated Copenhagen's cycle network, vehicle emissions would fall by 6%"

This study reaffirms the strong interconnections between urban planning, transport, the environment and health. Encouraging walking and cycling in cities plays a crucial role in reducing CO₂ emissions, mitigating the effects of climate change and improving environmental quality and public health. However, for these measures to be effective, cities must incorporate local knowledge and take into account the specific social, cultural and spatial conditions they face. Tailored strategies are essential to address specific challenges and design successful interventions.

The authors highlight urban density as a key factor in promoting active transport and suggest, for example, relaxing height restrictions to allow taller buildings. While higher density can encourage greater cycling and walking, it is essential to maintain a human-scale urban environment and avoid excessive vertical expansion. From a health perspective, mid-rise buildings are often considered the optimal balance, as they promote active lifestyles without compromising liveability.

To maximise the environmental and health benefits of active transport, cities must strike a balance between sufficient density and compactness, diversity of services and facilities, connectivity and accessibility, necessary infrastructure and the existence of ample green spaces. Together, these elements promote conditions conducive to walking and cycling. All interventions should take into account the local context and be based on the cultural and behavioural norms of residents to ensure that strategies are effective and equitable.