European Mobility Week and the case of Alimos European Mobility Week 2024

The European Mobility Week is one of the most important initiatives of the European Union for promoting sustainable urban mobility and raising awareness about its benefits. Every year, from September 16 to 22, thousands of cities and communities across Europe participate in this campaign by organizing activities aimed at enhancing the use of public transport, alternative modes of transportation, and innovative solutions for clean and smart transport.

DYEKO - Support Network for Entrepreneurship and Social Economy Greece

9/23/20242 min read

The Intergenerational Importance of Mobility Week

Sustainable mobility is an area that requires the involvement
and collaboration of all age groups. Younger people can contribute
by familiarizing themselves with new technologies and innovative
transport solutions, such as electric bikes, shared vehicles, and smart
transport apps. On the other hand, older citizens have valuable
experiences regarding the historical evolution of urban areas, changes
in transport systems, and the impact of mobility on shaping daily life.
The exchange of these experiences and knowledge strengthens the
social fabric and enhances the sense of belonging.

For instance, through activities like neighbourhood walks, older citizens
can share stories and knowledge about the changes they have witnessed
in public spaces, helping younger generations to better understand the city’s evolution over time.

Meanwhile, younger people can introduce older generations to new technologies that make cities greener and smarter, such as apps that monitor air quality or tools for planning transport routes.

The Case of Alimos Municipality in Mobility Week 2024.

The Municipality of Alimos, with its participation in European Mobility Week 2024, is an excellent example of the importance of this initiative in strengthening intergenerational cooperation and communication.

For example, the event on Friday, October 4th, themed “Solidarity”, includes activities supporting socially vulnerable groups in central areas of the city, allowing participants to collaborate and promote social solidarity between generations. Similarly, the “Car-Free Day” on Sunday, October 6th, invited citizens of all ages to Karaiskaki Square, where activities promoted a balance between urban mobility and the environment.

The Torch Relay, which took place on September 30th under the theme Beginning - brought together students and older citizens in a joint procession, promoting the idea of unity in public spaces. Additionally, the interactive performance at Alimos' 5th Gymnasium on Wednesday, October 2nd, themed "The Future of Children" highlighted the role of education in shaping sustainable societies, bringing students and educators together to explore sustainable practices. Furthermore, the event on Thursday, October 3rd, themed “Respect,” brought together both young and old for a walk at Lofou Pani Playground, where recycling workshops were organized. This encouraged collaboration for nature conservation and understanding how human actions impact the environment.

Through these activities, the older residents of Alimos can contribute their experience and knowledge about the use of public spaces in the past, while the younger ones have the opportunity to propose new ideas and familiarize themselves with technology and new forms of mobility. This interaction not only promotes awareness of sustainable mobility but also strengthens intergenerational dialogue, allowing different age groups to work together for the common good.

More information on the outcome of the European Mobility Week 2024 and the Alimos European Mobility Week 2024 can be found #mobilityweek , at www.mobilityweek.eu and at https://www.alimos.gov.gr/ andwww.facebook.com/alimos.euro.mob.week/