SCALE-UP In Action
Newsletter Issue #4-2024
SCALE-UP In Action is the quarterly e-Newsletter of the EU-funded SCALE-UP Innovation Action, sharing news on the progress of the project activities.
The SCALE-UP Urban Nodes Platform Second Event: Key Discussions and Outcomes
On 13 November 2024, the second Urban Nodes Platform event, “Moving People and the Economy Across the EU & in Cities,” took place, bringing together 100+ key stakeholders to discuss the integration of urban transport systems into the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T). As part of this event, SCALE-UP and its sister project MOVE21 contributed valuable insights into enhancing the role of Urban Nodes in shaping the future of mobility across the EU. Read the article to learn more about the key discussions and outcomes from the event.
Exploring Conflicts on Bicycle Highways Through the SCALE-UP Project: 3D Cameras and Artificial Intelligence in Antwerp Urban Node
The province of Antwerp, as part of the SCALE-UP project, is leveraging cutting-edge 3D camera technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to improve road safety at four key intersections along the cycle highway network. By focusing on key intersections, the initiative combines traffic data and road conditions to identify and reduce potential risks for cyclists. Additionally, it highlights the growing importance of integrating technology to enhance safety and mobility within urban environments.
SCALE-UP Project Continues to Foster Sustainable Urban Mobility Through Academic Research
The City of Turku continues to leverage knowledge and expertise by providing a unique opportunity for students and researchers to engage in hands-on experience and apply their academic knowledge to real-world scenarios.
Lukas Junghanns, from the Master’s Programme titled “Sustainable Urban Mobility Transitions” at Aalto University, recently submitted his thesis, "Nudging Green Mobility - A Comparative Analysis on Various Nudges for Mobility Behavior in the City of Turku." His research, conducted within SCALE-UP, explores behavioural interventions to mitigate seasonal declines in cycling, offering actionable recommendations for urban planning.
Holiday Greetings from the SCALE-UP project: An Overview of 2024 & Milestones Achieved
2024 marks a successful year for the SCALE-UP project, as the three Urban Nodes involved: Antwerp (BE), Madrid(ES), and Turku—have reached most of the milestones and developed mobility measures at this stage, with less than half a year remaining until the official end of the project.
In 2024, all three Urban Nodes continued to make significant efforts towards achieving a more inclusive, green, and sustainable mobility system for their citizens. Let us have a closer look at what SCALE-UP Urban Nodes achieved throughout this year.
News of Interest
Sustainable mobility challenges in European cities
In the article, Ana Drăguțescu, Head of Sustainable Mobility at Local Governments for Sustainability (ICLEI Europe), highlights the critical role of cities in achieving sustainable mobility. The European Union’s (EU) new Green Industrial Deal, part of the European Green Deal is designed to position Europe as a leader in sustainability, resilience, and competitiveness, with a specific emphasis on transforming the transport sector.
To achieve this, ongoing efforts will be required to meet the climate-neutrality targets of vehicles and accelerate the transition to more sustainable modes of transport, such as cycling, as outlined in the EU Cycling Declaration. Collaborative networks, such as CIVITAS, and initiatives like the EUROPEAN MOBILITY WEEK, serve as examples of how progress may be fuelled by shared knowledge.
Turin, a SCALE-UP Fellow City Announced European capital of innovation 2024-25
On 13 November 2024, the European Commission announced the winners of the 10th edition of the European Capital of Innovation Awards (iCapital) at the iCapital Award ceremony in Lisbon during the Web Summit. This year, Turin (Italy), one of the seven SCALE-UP Fellow Cities, was recognised as a unique example of urban innovation, capable of looking to the future while remaining deeply connected to its heritage. Supported by the European Innovation Council under Horizon Europe, the prize recognises cities' role in shaping the local innovation ecosystem and promoting game-changing innovation.
EIT Urban Mobility Launches Manifesto for Competitive and Sustainable Urban Mobility
On 25 November 2024, EIT Urban Mobility, a European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) initiative and an EU body, launched its Manifesto under the title “Deploying Mobility Innovation.” The manifesto aims to shape urban mobility policies as the European Union mandate for 2024-2029 kicks off. The document outlines a bold vision for competitive, sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready urban mobility across Europe. It calls on EU institutions to take decisive action, enhancing city liveability and public health through transformative transport solutions.