235 million. The number of inactive Europeans today. Inactivity has become a major challenge for individuals, and the European Union, over the past decades.

We know cities have a decisive role in stimulating physical activity, for instance via enabling and promoting active modes of transport like cycling. The majority of the European population presently lives in cities, and thus most exposed to negative impacts of urbanisation and more acutely affected by physical inactivity. This is topped-off by the fact that over 70% of local decision-makers are unaware of the existence and extent of the inactivity crisis. The EU funded PACTE project (Promoting Active Cities Throughout Europe), of which ECF is a partner, strives to transform cities into Active Cities.

The focus of the project is on understanding the situation regarding physical activity in Europe, and ECF is involved to incorporate active transport as a way to make cities more active. Many cities are realizing how active transportation could positively contribute to healthier and happier citizens, and are thus implementing progressive projects to promote sustainable and efficient transportation. Cycling is slowly becoming recognized as an essential component when adopting new models of urban development and planning sustainable cities.

How active is your city?

The PACTE project developed a survey to evaluate how cities deal with (in)activity. The survey is built to elaborate a measuring tool ensuring a pragmatic and systematic approach to local physical activity levels. It is designed for cities and towns in all different shapes and sizes. The data will contribute to creating free resources for cities in order to enhance physical activity.

Why should you or your city join?

• Your city will get access to the results of the project which will be a continuous improvement scheme for cities including measures and examples
• It helps your city to evaluate yourself on how active your city actually is
• Your city can compare your city with other cities across Europe on physical activity levels
• Your city will get access to a quality network of partners that can help you stimulate and promote physical activity in your city

We invite you to break the wheel of inactivity, by taking a few minutes to answer the survey, or by asking your city officials to fill out the survey (for other languages, go here).

Towns, villages, and cities of all sizes are encouraged to answer the questionnaire, and take a chance to potentially pilot the change towards becoming an Active City!