This is how Flanders thinks about sustainable mobility

A majority of Flemings realise the need for more sustainable mobility. Indeed, half (50%) feel a moral duty to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Moreover, a large majority (77%) agrees that it is good for the climate if people leave their cars at home more often and that less car traffic improves air quality. Fewer people are convinced that less car use leads to more social contact: 31% agree that residents have more contact with each other in car-free neighbourhoods and streets.

Although most Flemings seem aware of the positive effects of driving less, a majority believes that people should be able to use their cars as much as they like (54%). Finally, 38% of car drivers also indicate that they are not interested in driving their car less. Based on these figures, measures that limit car mobility seem to have a lower level of support. However, if we look at the results from the top three favourite policy measures, they nuance this finding. In them, the Flemish do show their willingness to use the car less.

At Mobiel 21, we often hear that there is no support for sustainable mobility. With this survey, we want to get rid of that vague gut feeling that stands in the way of sustainable and necessary change. In his answers, the Fleming debunks some persistent prejudices and gives policy makers confidence to make a modal and mental shift.

Admittedly, the Fleming does worry about traffic jams (43%), but road safety (46%) and impunity for traffic offenders (42%) are also in the top three. Also hardly surprising: the Fleming remains wedded to his car. Although one in three (33%) do not agree with the statement that they prefer to use the car for most trips. It does not seem to be due to a lack of knowledge about the alternatives: a large majority (80%) says they do know how to travel more sustainably.

40% of car drivers also say that an alternative to car is too much trouble. 30% answer that the car is the cheapest way to get around. Thus, this group considers the alternatives to be (too) expensive compared to the car. Looking at the Fleming's priority list in terms of policy, however, we see a clear preference for investments in sustainable alternatives to the car. Measures aimed at car mobility, such as investing in large-scale road infrastructure for cars (18%) and financially stimulating electric cars (15%) are at the very bottom.

Speed is not the most important characteristic for a means of transport. Asked what features the Fleming does consider important, affordability (60%) comes first. With 54% of the votes, safety claims second place. This is followed by comfort (42%), flexibility (30%) and speed (27%). Just over 20% indicate environmental friendliness or accessibility. Finally, giving relaxation (12%) and being healthy (8%) are at the bottom.