Although America is moving towards a more sustainable future, one aspect we are lacking in is walkable cities and towns. Urban sprawl in America has made it so even suburbs have five-lane city centers, and the annoyance of honking cars runs rampant. Our metropolitan areas may be able to be walked, but not because of a lack of cars. Pedestrians are pushed over to sidewalks and must run the risk of facing injury each time they cross the busy streets. In Europe, however, much of this lifestyle is switched, and the cities actually cater to pedestrians and cyclists.
It is no wonder European cities are considered more sustainable considering the immense benefits of walkable cities. For starters, the lack of vehicles causes a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, a walkable environment emits 4 tons less greenhouse gasses than an automobile-dependent suburb (CNU). There is also a significant drop in air pollution once those carbon emissions decline. Paris once had a “car-free day” in 2015 and the smog was cut by 40% in areas around the city (CNU). It also reduces noise pollution with less honking and ambient noise, making the cities more enjoyable for inhabitants.
Walkable cities even have benefits such as improving the microclimate of the area. Since less asphalt and more brick, stone, or concrete are being used, less sunlight is being absorbed. With these materials, up to 80% of sunlight is reflected instead, reducing temperatures in the city (CNU).
The water management also improves as cities become more pedestrian-friendly. The more permeable surfaces and green areas, the less stormwater runoff from roads (CNU). It also promotes time outside and exercise, increasing individual health benefits.
Pedestrian-only streets also increase the financial revenue of businesses. We see this in Copenhagen’s transition of its main street, Strøget, into a pedestrian-only area in 1962. The city then started to convert more and more streets to be walkable, making it one of the most sustainable and attractive cities in the world (Global Designs). The number of people taking part in outdoor activities in Copenhagen has increased by more than 3 times in less than 30 years because of these efforts, further proving the individual benefits (CNU).
It also financially benefits individuals. With cars costing the average American over $9,500 a year, using public transit or walking would save up to 13% of the average household’s expenditures (Climate Reality Project).
There are also social benefits worth considering. Walkable neighborhoods foster a sense of community, as people are more likely to interact with their neighbors while walking or cycling. This sense of connection can lead to stronger social ties, increased civic engagement, and a greater sense of belonging. Furthermore, walkable communities tend to be more inclusive, as they provide accessible transportation options for people of all ages and abilities, reducing reliance on cars and promoting equity in urban planning. By prioritizing walkability, cities can create more vibrant, livable spaces where everyone can thrive.
So, what is the most walkable city in the world? Although there is no one answer, cities such as Florence, Paris, and Copenhagen consistently rank highly. These cities are all beautiful, common tourist attractions and draw people in because of the ease at which you can explore.
With the environmental, individual, financial, social, and aesthetical advantages of walkable cities, I think it is time for America to start diverting from automobile-dependent urban sprawl and move towards pedestrian-centered areas. With climate change as a rising issue, decreasing pollution and carbon emissions should be something we are focusing on as a nation, and as a world. Transitioning to more walkable cities is a necessary step in that effort.