Stockholm wins the POLIS Award 2024

Stockholm has been awarded the prestigious POLIS Award 2024, recognising the city's outstanding contributions to sustainable transport and urban innovation.

Alexander Bräutigam (FREENOW) - Credits: Foto Behrendt

Sponsored by FREENOW, the award highlights Stockholm's leadership in promoting climate-neutral and inclusive urban mobility.

A beacon of sustainable mobility

The city's Vice-Mayor for Transport and Urban Environment, Lars Strömgren, attributes much of Stockholm’s success to its commitment to sustainability, and Strömgren’s personal dedication to making the city green, liveable, and child-friendly is reflected in the city’s ambitious policies and projects.

Stockholm’s pioneering efforts include the introduction of congestion charges in 2007, the development of environmental zones dating back to 1996, and the upcoming launch of its first Zero-Emission Zone (ZEZ). These initiatives have resulted in improved air quality, reduced congestion, and set a global benchmark for other cities. Strömgren emphasized the city’s Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP), which prioritises walking, cycling, and public transport, followed by sustainable freight solutions, and limiting private car use.

Adapting and innovating against all odds

A key aspect of Stockholm's success is its ability to adapt and innovate in the face of challenges. For instance, the city has introduced clean vehicle zones, expanded electric vehicle infrastructure, and encouraged the use of cargo bikes for deliveries. Strömgren also pointed to collaborations with civil society and businesses, such as the STOLT initiative, which preempts mobility challenges and creates collaborative solutions.

Stockholm wins the POLIS Award sponsored by FREENOW - Credits: Foto Behrendt

Despite facing opposition, particularly regarding its Zero-Emission Zone, Stockholm’s residents have shown strong support for these measures, with surveys indicating widespread approval. Strömgren’s commitment to dialogue and finding adaptive solutions underlines the importance of collaboration in urban mobility transformation. He stressed that platforms like POLIS play a crucial role in amplifying urban voices in EU policy discussions, advocating for more support to help cities achieve their climate neutrality targets.

As a leader in the EU Cities Mission, Stockholm is paving the way for cities across Europe in tackling climate change, improving urban livability, and creating inclusive, sustainable mobility systems. With ongoing efforts, such as clean vehicle requirements in procurement and waterborne construction logistics, the city is poised to continue its leadership in the green transition, inspiring other urban centres to follow suit.