SUSTAINABLE MOBILITY INDEX: WHICH EUROPEAN CITIES HAVE THE BEST SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM?

• Helsinki, Finland was revealed as the Capital city with the most sustainable transport system, scoring 42.30/60 on the sustainable mobility index[1]
• With its fleet of 2,600 diesel-electric hybrid buses, reducing city emissions by 30-40%, London has the most sustainable transport system in the UK[2]

• Manchester has the most sustainable urban rail, which is powered by 62% wind power[3] 

• The sustainable mobility index can be found here. 

Sustainable transport is one of the greatest environmental threats, in 2017, 27% of the total EU greenhouse gas emissions came from the transport sector alone. According to new research from Uswitch.com, Helsinki Finland is the city making the biggest commitment to sustainable public transport.[4]

Taking a seed list of 27 of Europe’s most populous capital cities, the energy team have analysed the sustainability credentials of each city, based on metrics such as e-scooter legislation, sustainable transport plan, participation in European mobility week, eco-friendly buses, bicycle rental scheme, and sustainable urban rail.

Scoring 42.30 out of 60 available points, Helsinki Finland topped the index, with walking, cycling, and public transport accounting for 77% of journeys in the city and more than 3,450 city bikes at 238 bike stations located around the city.[1]

Stockholm scored top marks for its sustainable mobility credentials, with a score of 42 out of 60 the Swedish capital is the second-highest-ranking city on the Sustainable Mobility Index. The city powers its bus and metro system on 100% renewable energy, to help reduce the impact their transportation system has on the environment. [5]

Table: Top 10 European cities for sustainable transport

WHICH UK CITY HAS THE MOST SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT SYSTEM? 

Scoring 55 out of 60 available points, London topped the UK sustainable mobility index, owing to 2,600 diesel-electric hybrid buses which are more fuel-efficient, reduce emission by 30-40%, and sustainability plan to increase trips made by foot, cycling or public transport to 80%. [6]

Liverpool took second place as the UK’s most sustainable transportation system, scoring particularly high for its eco-friendly bus fleet. The city implemented a system of next-generation emission standard buses operating in the city centre, which have significantly lower levels of carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides. [7]

Manchester, located in the northwest of England is home to one of the most sustainable transport systems in the UK. 62% of the Manchester Metrolink power is generated from wind-solar, the rest is generated from sustainable sources such as recycling waste, water power, and natural fuel including wood chips and grass. [3] There are currently 250 buses with VI engines operating in Greater Manchester, which limit the harmful emission transmitted from a petrol or diesel engine.

Table: Top 10 UK Cities for Sustainable Transport

The Sustainable Mobility Index can be found here:

https://www.uswitch.com/gas-electricity/eco-transport-index/ 

Find out how you could save nearly £1,000 a year with Uswitch here.