Sustainable mobility is an essential issue for the functioning of cities, as it integrates efficiency, accessibility and respect for the environment, directly impacting the population's quality of life and economy.

The issue has gained global relevance, especially in the face of climate change and the need to reduce carbon emissions. In Brazil, where urban growth has not always been accompanied by efficient planning, the commuting system faces challenges ranging from inadequate infrastructure to problems related to sustainability. But it also presents significant opportunities for urban transformation, making Brazilian cities better places to live.

Here are some myths and truths about sustainable mobility:

Swapping cars for bicycles is the only way to achieve sustainable mobility

Myth. Although the bicycle is important for sustainable mobility, it is not the only way to travel that is more beneficial to the environment. Efficient public transportation, the use of less polluting vehicles (such as electric or biofuel-powered ones), pedestrian infrastructure and even strategies to reduce the need to commute, such as teleworking and integrated urban planning, are all essential components of sustainable mobility.

Along the same lines, it's not necessary to completely abandon cars that run on fossil fuels. The conscious use of these vehicles can be encouraged by carpooling. More people using a single form of transport means fewer cars on the road.

Electric cars reduce local pollutant emissions but are not the definitive solution for sustainable mobility

True. Despite being an important part of sustainable mobility, the electric car does not solve problems such as congestion, consumption of urban space and intensive extraction of raw materials for batteries. The use of this vehicle must be complemented by collective and active alternative options, such as public transport, bicycles and walking.

Many sustainable mobility solutions are affordable and even save money in the long run

True. Although some initiatives require high initial investments, such as the implementation of subways or bus corridors, many other sustainable travel solutions are cheaper. For example, bike lanes, accessible sidewalks and bike-sharing systems are relatively inexpensive and have a significant impact on people's quality of life. In addition, incentive policies, such as subsidies for public transport or carpooling programs, can also be implemented without great expense.

Sustainable mobility only benefits the environment

Myth. The benefits of sustainable mobility go far beyond environmental preservation. Improving public health (by reducing air pollution and encouraging physical activity), reducing the time spent commuting and cutting costs related to individual transportation are all advantages that are also provided by sustainable mobility. In addition, more sustainable cities are more attractive for investment and tourism, generating economic benefits for everyone.

​​Sustainable mobility is feasible in any urban context, including small and medium-sized cities

True. Cities of all sizes can implement sustainable mobility. In localities where distances are generally shorter, for example, initiatives such as bike-sharing systems, more efficient public transport (considering better routes, timetables and points of departure and arrival) and incentives for walking (by means of signposted pedestrian routes) can be implemented with an immediate and positive impact.

​​​​​​No city in Brazil encourages sustainable mobility

Myth. Places such as São Paulo, Brasília and Rio de Janeiro have expanded their bike lane networks and promoted the use of bicycles as daily transportation, through stations containing this means of transport spread out in strategic regions.

The public system does not encourage sustainable urban mobility in big cities

​​​​Myth. Systems such as BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) and exclusive bus lanes are examples of sustainable urban mobility in Brazil's major cities, increasing efficiency and reducing emissions.

Integrated urban planning, the development of public policies, the use of technology and community participation are all essential for the effective implementation of sustainable mobility.

True. The focus on building more compact environments, with easy access to work, leisure and basic services, reducing the need for long commutes, as well as subsidies for public transport, incentives for the use of clean vehicles and regulations on pollutant emissions, are key actions for good sustainable mobility planning. In addition, the use of technology is essential, with ride-sharing apps, solutions to improve public transport monitoring and intelligent traffic management.

Another way to optimize urban systems is to involve citizens in the planning phase. The voice of those involved in the day-to-day running of the city makes actions more effective and more appropriate to local needs.