Capacity-building for sustainable transport in Västra Götaland

The project strengthens regional efforts to achieve sustainable accessibility, reduce emissions and make better use of existing infrastructure in Västra Götaland. Guided by the first two steps of the Four-Step Principle, it focuses on measures that reduce the demand for travel and shape travel behaviour, as well as on solutions that improve the efficiency of current infrastructure.

The project concentrates on the first two steps of the Four-Step Principle. Step 1 aims to reduce transport demand and influence how people travel. Step 2 focuses on improving the efficiency of existing infrastructure. In Swedish transport planning, the Four-Step Principle plays a central guiding role. According to the framework, these steps should be considered before decisions are made to rebuild or construct new infrastructure (Steps 3 and 4).

Examples of Step 1 measures include spatial planning that reduces car dependency, parking management strategies and information initiatives that make it easier to choose walking, cycling and public transport. Step 2 measures may involve reallocating road space, introducing dedicated bus lanes and traffic signal priority, increasing service frequency, or applying smarter logistics solutions.

A stronger focus on Steps 1 and 2 can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality and strengthen public health. Despite this potential, such measures are currently implemented to a limited extent. The project seeks to accelerate implementation through four components:

1. Mapping national and international examples and developing a catalogue of feasible measures.
2. Designing packages of measures in two model cities, including cost and impact assessments.
3. Organising a seminar series for planners, public officials and decision-makers.
4. Proposing practical working methods to speed up implementation.

IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute leads the project and is responsible for analysis, method development and training activities, in close dialogue with the Västra Götaland Region, municipalities, the Swedish Transport Administration and Västtrafik. The results can contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions, improved air quality, better public health and more sustainable accessibility in the region.