With nearly 70% of the world’s population set to live in urban areas by 2030, the quality of life experienced by this population will determine our global future. It is increasingly cities, more than national governments, that have the power to tackle climate change, fuel the global economy, deliver prosperity and alleviate poverty.
• Social benefits such as health and wellbeing, safety, placemaking, social cohesion and equality.
• Economic benefits including city attractiveness, the local economy, urban regeneration, and cost savings.
• Environmental benefits to do with virtuous cycles, ecosystem services, liveability and transport efficiency.
• Political benefits associated with leadership, urban governance, sustainable development and planning opportunities.
A walkable environment – characterised by safe walking paths and equipped with appropriate facilities (e.g. benches, street lighting and drinking fountains) – can provide an enjoyable context which can encourage a widespread range of active and healthier lifestyles across all ages.
Improving walkability and focusing the street design to less mobile citizens’ needs can unlock the city to everyone, increasing the street attractiveness and accessibility.
Putting walking first helps slow down traffic speeds without necessarily lowering its flow, dramatically reducing the risk of road accidents.
According to Transport for London, the likelihood for individual obesity decreases 4.8% every km of walk per day.
An Irish study demonstrates residents of walkable districts show 80% greater levels of social capital.
In Kansas City, crime in Kessler Park dropped by 74% the year that 2.6 miles around it were turned car-free on weekends
Walkable environments are not just healthier but also wealthier: research has shown positive correlations between improved walkability, raised local retail spend, enhanced value of local services and goods and the creation of more job opportunities.
Since a pedestrian-friendly environment diffuses wellbeing, investing in walking is a strategic tool in order to enhance public consensus in favour of the promoting political establishment.
Tourism is influenced by a city’s infrastructure: pedestrian inaccessibility can create hardship. Walkability creates public spaces that are a pleasure to pass by; moreover, implementing small and well-planned distances between destinations enhances the pleasure of strolling through the city and enjoying local services, shops and landmarks.
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