Leaving cars home once a week would help meet Tampere's climate targets

This is based on the Carbon neutral Tampere 2030 target and the need to reduce transport emissions in particular. 

European Mobility Week, celebrated annually in September, encourages us to reflect on our daily transportation choices and their impact on the environment, society, and our health.  

In support of this initiative, the city officials, including Deputy Mayors Matti Helimo and Ilkka Porttikivi, are taking part in Mobility Week to give their cars a rest. Deputy Mayor Matti Helimo, responsible for cultural services, plans to cycle to work, while Ilka Porttikivi, Deputy Mayor for the Urban Environment Service Area, will commute using an electric scooter. 

– I have found commuting between Lentävänniemi and the city centre refreshing. After long meetings, it is a great to enjoy the fresh air while travelling, says Porttikivi. I own my electric scooter and use it frequently when the weather allows. I am eagerly waiting the arrival of the tram in Lentävänniemi, which will further reduce my need to use a car on the way to work
 

A car-free day once a week is a good basic rule

Transport emissions should be reduced by 45% from current level by 2030 to reach the city’s climate target. 

With two thirds of transport emissions caused by cars, shifting to more sustainable transportation options – such as walking, cycling, or public transport – has become crucial.

– Achieving the emission reduction target in transport is particularly challenging, says Kari Kankaala, Director of Environment and Development for the city. Tampere’s population is growing and changes in modes of transport are slow. Reducing traffic emissions requires determined actions and the city, companies and residents co-operation.

Just one day a week makes a big difference: if every Tampere resident who drives left their car at home once a week, Tampere could reach the goal of being carbon neutral by 2030.

One car-free day per week is a good basic rule, says Kankaala. 

– While some people may travel only a few kilometres a day and other tens of kilometres, everyone’s mobility choices are influenced by their life circumstances. Giving your car a day off once a week is a simple yet powerful way to contribute to our climate goals.  If everyone did the same, once a week would be enough to significantly reduce transport emissions.

Reducing driving also has health and economic benefits 

The City of Tampere supports sustainable mobility and changes in modes of transport by, for example, developing public transport and cycling infrastructure. The aim is to increase the use of sustainable transport methods to 69% by 2030. In addition to climate goals, this shift also promotes physical and mental well-being. Walking and cycling provide daily exercise, improves fitness and support mental health. 

According to the passenger traffic survey, Tampere residents make an avarage of 2.6 trips per day, covering a total of 29 kilometres on average. More than half of the trips made by Tampere residents are short, less than 5 kilometres, highlighting the potential to increase walking and cycling, especially on these shorter trips.

Switching to more sustainable modes of transport would also bring financial benefits, reducing personal car expenses while saving the city money in the long run.