ZAGREB, 16 Sept (Hina) - Ahead of European Mobility Week, taking place on 16-22 September under the slogan "Mobility for All", environmental groups in Croatia are calling for urgent transformation of the transport system to ensure access to sustainable mobility for all citizens.
The environmental group Zelena Akcija emphasises improved public transport, electrification of railways, safe cycling infrastructure, pedestrian zones, and reduced car use. Greenpeace Croatia advocates building "cities that breathe", where walking, cycling, and public transport are the norm.
Bernard Ivčić from Zelena Akcija highlighted that car numbers in Croatia keep rising while public transport stagnates and cycling infrastructure develops slowly. He stressed that public transport must remain affordable, subsidised, and publicly owned, especially in smaller towns. Limiting car speeds in neighbourhoods, expanding pedestrian zones, and economically discouraging car use are also crucial. Ivčić added that bold political decisions are needed to shift away from car-centric policies.
Greenpeace warned that cities are "suffocating" from traffic and pollution, with fossil fuels worsening the climate crisis.
Petra Andrić of Greencpeace Croatia noted that a single Car-Free Day (22 September) is insufficient; permanent car-free zones, safe cycling networks, accessible public transport, and shared mobility schemes are required. Transport must also accommodate people with disabilities.
The Ministry of Environment and Green Transition stressed that European Mobility Week promotes sustainable urban mobility and encourages local authorities to test innovative planning measures, promote infrastructure and technologies, monitor air quality, and gather public feedback. Sustainable mobility is key to achieving climate neutrality by 2050, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving public health, and strengthening healthcare system resilience.
This year, the ministry will launch two calls under the Modernisation Fund with €90 million to support companies in transitioning to clean transport, prioritising those with high mileage to maximise emissions reduction. A Social Climate Policy Plan is also in preparation, focusing on vulnerable groups, cycling infrastructure, bike-sharing systems, and investments in electric public transport, trains, charging infrastructure, and the modernisation of local and regional railways.
