Throughout the summer, the Bologna Living Lab played a pivotal role in addressing critical issues related to climate change and sustainable urban mobility. Over 150 individuals from diverse age groups and social backgrounds actively participated in citizen science and urban mobility initiatives during two Climate Action Training Schools held between July and September 2023 in Bologna.
Data collection took center stage during a reflective session hosted by the Golinelli Foundation in collaboration with the I-CHANGE team from the University of Bologna (UNIBO). This event shed light on the significance of citizen science and the integration of user-generated data into climate change initiatives. During the gathering, “Mani in Mappa!” workshop was introduced, and key findings from citizen science efforts conducted in the Bologna Living Lab were shared with an attentive audience of 25 high school teachers from Italy. These educators were part of Fondazione Golinelli’s “Masterclass for STEAM” program, demonstrating a profound interest in citizen science and its educational potential in raising awareness about climate change. Data collection and analysis were emphasized as essential tools in promoting climate change awareness.
The second day of CATS for Bologna LL, held during the European Mobility Week on September 17th, marked another significant step toward promoting sustainable urban mobility. The Mobility Village event was a collaborative initiative between the Municipality of Bologna and the Fondazione Innovazione Urbana, providing the UNIBO team with an opportunity to showcase their sustainable urban mobility initiatives. This event was made possible through a partnership with the Salvaiciclisti Bologna civic association, one of the main stakeholders of the Bologna LL.
During the event, the objectives and core activities of I-CHANGE were outlined, followed by an engaging data visualization exercise. A diverse group of 87 individuals created their own mobility agenda for the previous week, following the methodology pioneered by Giorgia Lupi. This exercise fostered greater awareness regarding urban mobility behaviors and paved the way for meaningful discussions on adopting more sustainable and secure mobility choices.
The level of engagement displayed by participants represented a significant step toward understanding the barriers and drivers of behavioral change in urban mobility. Furthermore, it allowed for the identification of concrete strategies to promote collective behavioral changes in this critical sector.
As research and activism for more sustainable urban mobility continue to gain momentum, the enthusiasm and insights shared during this event demonstrate that together, we can drive positive change and create a safer and more sustainable urban mobility landscape for all.
