Opening Plenary - Steering the Mobility Renaissance: Vision & Strategies for Sustainable Urban Futures

As we navigate substantial environmental, technological, and social transformations, the CIVITAS Forum 2024 convenes to discuss the evolution of urban mobility in Europe. Hosted in Parma, a city reflective of the Renaissance spirit of innovation and transformation, this session establishes a foundational dialogue for the conference's main streams. It will focus on the creation of sustainable, interconnected, and equitable urban environments.  

Key leaders from the European Commission, the municipality of Parma, and the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security will present integrated strategies that align with broader EU policies and strategies such as the EU Cities Mission, the European Green Deal, the Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy, the EU’s Urban Mobility Framework and initiatives towards digital transformation.  

The plenary will address three primary streams:  

• Climate-neutral and Resilient Mobility: Strategies to advance climate-neutral urban transport, aiming for significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and the integration of zero-emission vehicles and sustainable public transport systems. 

• Smart, Connected, and Efficient Mobility: The role of digital technologies like AI and IoT in enhancing urban transport efficiency, supporting the EU’s efforts for a Digital Single Market and intelligent transport systems. 

• Inclusive and Safe Mobility for All: The importance of mobility in social inclusion, ensuring that mobility services are accessible to all, including disadvantaged and vulnerable groups, in line with the European Pillar of Social Rights. 

This session will provide a detailed examination of these themes, aligning with the EU’s strategic directions for sustainable urban mobility and setting the stage for further discussions throughout the conference.