Obstacles to public participation in sustainable mobility policies: the case of tram implementation in Athens

Abstract

European policy for sustainable mobility that aims for better quality of movement has no choice but to target car use which of course has the most serious environmental impacts. Reaction to such policies is strong as dependence on travelling by car is great and it is of course safer and faster. Although many people would prefer to walk, cycle or use public transport if cities were equipped with the appropriate networks, they nevertheless obstruct their implementation as it would mean changes in everyday habits and choices. This paper attempts to contribute towards overcoming this problem, presenting the results of qualitative research based on in-depth interviews of residents from the municipality of Paleo Faliro in Athens. The aim was to understand the reasons behind the hostile reaction to Athen’s first tram line even though it should have been welcomed as a means used worldwide for upgrading urban environments. The research revealed problems in the relationship between the state and residents, resulting in the latter becoming alienated and skeptical about the motives of policy makers. However, public participation is a prerequisite for the success of sustainable mobility policies since innovative measures require public acceptance. This paper outlines what is needed for residents to become informed, educated and eventually involved in order to achieve successful sustainable transport planning and implementation.