The 15-minute challenge: Evaluating the gaps in accessibility and urban mobility

In the context of rapid urbanization and growing environmental challenges, the concept of the “15-minute city”, where essential services are accessible within a 15-minute walk or bike ride, has emerged as a key model for sustainable urban planning. This study evaluates the accessibility and urban mobility in Bucharest, Romania, based on this model. Bucharest is considered an appealing case study given the fact that it is facing significant issues with regards to the topic of transportation, emissions and segmented urbanization development, having one of its districts included in the “100 Climate-Neutral Cities by 2030” mission. Using geospatial analysis, statistical descriptions, and cluster analysis performed in Python, access to essential services such as education, healthcare, cultural activities, and mobility across six districts is assessed. The analysis is structured around four composite indices: Accessibility to Learning and Healthcare, Wellbeing and Quality of Life, Essential Services and Mobility, and Food Access and Provision. The findings indicate that District 2 is the most closely aligned with the “15-minute city” criteria, as it demonstrates a high level of service accessibility. Conversely, peripheral districts, such as District 6, demonstrate restricted access to mobility and healthcare services. Cluster analysis further confirmed the disparities between districts in terms of access to infrastructure and services, highlighting the necessity of targeted urban planning and investment. This research underlines the significance of integrated policies in order to improve sustainable urban mobility and mitigate regional disparities in service accessibility.