Pillar 1:
Ecological transition in the field of culture

Priority 3:
Rethinking mobility / reducing carbon emissions due to the mobility of artists and audiences

Cities have become heavily reliant on private cars, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. Road transport accounts for a fifth of these emissions, with light vehicles responsible for around 70% (European Commission).

To meet the EU’s 2050 climate neutrality goal, Gijon focuses on educating younger generations to shift cultural attitudes towards sustainable mobility.

Through cycling-based initiatives, the city aims to reduce emissions, improve public health, and foster a more sustainable urban environment.

Gijon promotes sustainable mobility among students through three key activities:

• A Bike School, which teaches children how to cycle safely and independently, equipping them with practical skills for responsible urban cycling and fostering environmental awareness.

• Bike Buses, which provide a sustainable transport option for school trips, like visits to museums, with two supervisors guiding students by bike, reducing the need for car travel.

• ‘Discovering Gijón by pedalling’, which offers guided bike tours exploring the city’s urban planning, heritage, and history, while utilising cycle lanes and traffic-calmed roads.
  

  In the 2023-2024 academic year, 1,429 students participated in these activities. Feedback from teachers has been overwhelmingly positive, with some schools taking the initiative to organise similar activities independently. These programmes have also been expanded to after-school activities for children, young people, and adults.

  Contracting processes are currently underway to guarantee the activities for a minimum period of two years, with the possibility of extension. The activities are expected to continue, with an institutional commitment to maintain them in the coming years.

Total budget (2025-2026): EUR 22,092

The activities are funded by the Municipal Foundation of Culture, Education and UP (Popular University).