Transportation is a basic, fundamental need, and how we travel, especially in cities, really matters. Increasing rates of motorization, especially in the rapidly urbanizing Global South, have led to a global increase in road injuries and fatalities. Longer commutes, increased traffic congestion, and major increases in on-demand taxis and freight have made the transport sector the fastest-growing source of energy-related greenhouse gas emissions. Increased road building and sprawl have exacerbated social inequality, isolating the poor from economic opportunity in far-flung areas.
For 35 years, ITDP has been working to create better, people-centered streets that prioritize walking, cycling, and public transportation over private cars. Cities designed in this way, with reliable and quality public transport networks, significantly improve the quality of life for all citizens, especially low-income residents, who can enjoy greater access to the economic opportunities, culture, and community that cities offer. Safer streets encourage active mobility, improving physical and mental health. More trips with cycling, walking, or public transport mean fewer trips with cars, reducing pollution and GHG emissions, improving air quality, and enhancing social equity.
ITDP operates in cities of all types across four continents, with head offices in China, Brazil, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Mexico, and the United States. Our teams comprise architects, urban planners, leading transport experts, cycling activists, data scientists, and policy specialists who work directly with local governments to implement visible, on-the-ground improvements. Our extensive resources for cities, planners, policymakers, and activists encompass technical reports, guides, standards, videos, infographics, and white papers on a wide range of topics, from bus rapid transit to electric two-wheeler policies.