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Sustainable Mobility in Barcelona: Trends, Challenges and Policies for Urban Decarbonization

Author

Listed:
  • Carolina Sifuentes-Muñoz

    (Centre for Land Policy and Valuations (CPSV), Barcelona School of Architecture (ETSAB), Universitat Politènica de Catalunya, 08028 Barcelona, Spain)

  • Blanca Arellano

    (Centre for Land Policy and Valuations (CPSV), Barcelona School of Architecture (ETSAB), Universitat Politènica de Catalunya, 08028 Barcelona, Spain)

  • Josep Roca

    (Centre for Land Policy and Valuations (CPSV), Barcelona School of Architecture (ETSAB), Universitat Politènica de Catalunya, 08028 Barcelona, Spain)

Abstract

The Barcelona Metropolitan Area (AMB) has implemented various policies to reduce car use and promote more sustainable mobility. Initiatives such as superblocks, Low Emission Zones (LEZs), and the Bicivia network aim to transform the urban model in response to environmental and congestion challenges. However, the high reliance on private vehicles for intermunicipal travel, uneven infrastructure, and social resistance to certain changes remain significant issues. This study examines the evolution of mobility patterns and assesses the effectiveness of the above policies in fostering real and sustainable change. A mixed-methods approach was adopted, which combined an exploratory factor analysis (EFA) of 2011–2024 data, trend linear regression, and a comparative international analysis. The EFA identified four key structural dimensions: traditional transport infrastructure, active mobility and bus lines, public bicycles and mixed use, and transport efficiency and punctuality. The findings reveal a clear reduction in private car use and an increase in sustainable modes of transport. This indicates that there are prospects for future transformation. Nonetheless, challenges persist in intermunicipal mobility and the public acceptance of the measures. This study provides empirical and comparative evidence and emphasizes the need for integrated metropolitan governance to achieve a resilient and sustainable urban model.

Suggested Citation

  • Carolina Sifuentes-Muñoz & Blanca Arellano & Josep Roca, 2025. "Sustainable Mobility in Barcelona: Trends, Challenges and Policies for Urban Decarbonization," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(15), pages 1-26, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:15:p:6964-:d:1714464
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Francesc Magrinyà & Josep Mercadé-Aloy & Borja Ruiz-Apilánez, 2023. "Merging Green and Active Transportation Infrastructure towards an Equitable Accessibility to Green Areas: Barcelona Green Axes," Land, MDPI, vol. 12(4), pages 1-29, April.
    2. Luca Barbarossa, 2020. "The Post Pandemic City: Challenges and Opportunities for a Non-Motorized Urban Environment. An Overview of Italian Cases," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(17), pages 1-19, September.
    3. Mariano Gallo & Mario Marinelli, 2020. "Sustainable Mobility: A Review of Possible Actions and Policies," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(18), pages 1-39, September.
    4. Richter, Maximilian A. & Hagenmaier, Markus & Bandte, Oliver & Parida, Vinit & Wincent, Joakim, 2022. "Smart cities, urban mobility and autonomous vehicles: How different cities needs different sustainable investment strategies," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 184(C).
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