Working together to improve liveability
The top ten most sustainable cities in the world vary, but Oslo, Stockholm and Copenhagen invariably feature in the list. In the Sustainable Cities Index 2022, they rank one, two and four respectively. Their secret? Smart housing solutions, plenty of greenery and well-organised public transport. A great example for us to follow!
An effective and accessible public transport system is indispensable in a sustainable city. It solves numerous social problems at the same time. Less space is needed for cars, emissions of greenhouse and other harmful gases fall sharply, road safety increases and more people gain access to mobility.
The theory of the 15-minute city
Cities are getting busier, but fortunately they’re also getting smarter. According to the theory of the 15-minute city, cities and municipalities should strive to ensure that all the amenities their residents need are a maximum of 15 minutes away.
“If you can walk, cycle or take public transport to the shops, to school or work, to the doctor, to the restaurant and to the sports centre, you don’t need a car. And fewer cars means less congestion and less exhaust fumes.”
In Flanders, many people already live in a 15-minute city or municipality! This is thanks in part to our extensive public transport network. More good news: research shows that there are not only fewer emissions on low-traffic streets, but also more social interaction. Public transport can ensure that you get to know your neighbours better!
We’re all getting greener on the road
A change of attitude is also noticeable in the general public. We’re all increasingly opting for sustainable options, such as the bicycle or e-bike, shared or electric cars or public transport. At De Lijn, it is our mission to be the driving force behind making mobility more sustainable in Flanders. By doing this, we can make cities more liveable and accessible. A full bus replaces up to 30 cars. That’s a lot less dust and nitrogen in the atmosphere. Quite a relief!
We are also keeping our own emissions to a minimum. By 2035, all De Lijn vehicles will be emission-free. There are already a lot of hybrid and electric buses on the road. You can recognise them by the orange sticker with a lightning bolt. Or by the absence of a throbbing engine and the fresher air all around.
Increasingly accessible transport
We also give a lot of thought to our accessibility. For example, we work with cities and municipalities to find sustainable mobility solutions for their residents. Many cities and municipalities contribute all or part of the cost, so that public transport is becoming better value. Free buses and trams on shopping Sundays or at the end of the year are one example. There’s also the special fare for the elderly and travellers who are entitled to a transport guarantee (VG) or increased allowance (VT). Children under the age of 6 and disabled passengers ride for free.
Will you join us on the journey towards less CO₂?
Walk, cycle or take public transport. You’ll be helping Ghent, Antwerp and many other cities to become pioneers of sustainability.