1.5° Lifestyles Challenge: Embracing a Car-Free Lifestyle in Europe

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People walking across a bridge in a city
© wal_172619/pixabay
2024-10-16

The EU Horizon 1.5° Lifestyles project has launched a series of challenges to encourage citizens to adopt more sustainable habits, starting with mobility.    
The first challenge, "Car-free is possible", runs from October to November 2024 and invites citizens, especially from Germany, Hungary, Latvia, Spain and Sweden, to leave their cars unused as much as possible. This article explores the challenges and significant benefits of going car-free, and how we can get involved in this transformative initiative.

Why should we go car-free?

Cars have an impact on the environment. They are a major source of greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing our own car use, we can significantly reduce our carbon footprint, contribute to cleaner air in our immediate neighbourhood and generally contribute to a healthier planet. But the benefits of getting around without a car go beyond the environmental: getting around without a car can have a significant and varied impact on personal health, finances and society.    
As we all know, regular physical activity can reduce the risk of chronic disease, improve cardiovascular health, prevent obesity and have a positive impact on mental health. In general, it improves our overall wellbeing. But it can also be financially beneficial: owning a car is expensive. The costs of maintenance, insurance, fuel and parking fees (which can be quite high, especially in urban areas) would no longer be necessary if we chose to live car-free. By opting for public transport, cycling or walking, we can save a considerable amount of money and become more involved in our communities. But why? Walking, cycling and public transport encourage social interaction and can help build a sense of community that is often lost when people travel in isolated cars. And by reducing the number of cars on the road, we also help to reduce congestion. Fewer cars on the road means faster journey times for public transport, safer streets for cyclists and pedestrians, and a generally more pleasant urban environment. 

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Cars taking over a city street
© tornow/adelphi
But why is it so difficult to leave the car behind?

While the idea of living without a car may seem daunting, especially in a society accustomed to the convenience of the private car, it is important to acknowledge the challenges and think about how to overcome them.    
One of the biggest challenges we may face in our quest to live car-free is infrastructure constraints: not all European cities have the infrastructure to support easy car-free living. Rural areas, in particular, often lack adequate public transport, making it harder for residents to give up their cars. But personal preference and convenience often mean that a car is chosen over a more sustainable way of getting around. If we have to commute long distances or transport heavy goods, using our own car may seem like the best choice - but by thinking twice and looking outside the box, it is possible to find other solutions that would still allow you to reduce your car use.     
Political will - when it comes to infrastructure improvements - and the creativity of citizens can contribute to societal change: if the weather is challenging, either use public transport or invest in some good quality, long lasting active wear that will keep you warm and dry. If your commute is too long or public transport is not available, form a carpooling community. Sharing a ride with others and filling every seat in a car helps reduce the environmental impact, reduces the number of cars on the road, leading to safer traffic and an improved urban environment, and will build your social network and enhance the sense of community in your neighbourhood. Moving bulky items is mostly an occasional need, so it is easy to rent a car for these occasions.     
More generally, we need to look at our cultural and social norms. In many places, car ownership is a status symbol and an ingrained part of daily life.
Overcoming these cultural norms requires a significant shift in mindset. Taking part in this October/November challenge can be a first step in making that happen for you!

What is this challenge about and how can I get involved?

The EU Horizon 1.5° Lifestyles project aims to inspire and support citizens to adopt sustainable lifestyles. The 'Car-free is possible' challenge is the first in a series of four challenges designed to help individuals reduce their carbon footprint in different aspects of their lives.
From October to November 2024, participants are encouraged to leave their cars unused as often as possible. The challenge encourages the use of alternative modes of transport such as walking, cycling and public transport.     
By taking part, you can experience the benefits of a car-free lifestyle first-hand and contribute to a wider movement towards sustainability.

  • Join the challenge: Commit to leaving your car at home for as many days a week as possible. Document your experience and share it on social media using the hashtag #movecarfree
  • Share your story: Share your success stories and experiences on the project website. . Your insights can inspire others to join the movement.
  • Engage with the community: Follow the #ONEPOINTFIVECHALLENGE on social media platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Engage with posts, share your journey and connect with others taking part in the challenge.
  • Win prizes: In some countries you will have the chance to win exciting prizes that support sustainable living by participating and sharing your story.

For more information and to join the challenge,visit EU 1.5° Lifestyles Challenges. or join the challenge directly by following the social media channels: LinkedIn, Facebook, X.

Maren Tornow - adelphi