Good practice:

How to achieve behavioral change towards bicycle & sustainable mobility:the case of Karditsa, Greece

From a city given to cars, it managed to become the bicycle city of Greece, having as its established symbol the “heavenly cyclist" indicating the ultimate change in mobility habits.
The Municipality of Karditsa over the years has developed a strategy for the improvement of citizens’ lives and sustainable mobility in the area, with important interventions. Through continuous effort, a series of drastic measures, active engagement, many funding programs, and actions, it promoted and inspired the modal shift while cultivating the relevant culture to its citizens.
The foundations were laid in 2000 when an awareness-raising campaign was launched focusing on schools. The construction of the first network of bicycle paths in 2003 changed the mindset and brought a radical increase in bicycle use even from the beginning. Of course, negative reactions were unavoidable at first, but the political will, which is the crucial factor for changes, was strong in Karditsa.
Since then, many different interlinked actions were implemented in terms of (i) infrastructure, (ii) awareness-raising, (iii) management, (iv) policy improvements, etc. Among others, unique initiatives nationwide such as an extra day of leave for the municipal employees who commute to work by bike, and those participating in the national competition "By bike to work". It provides incentives both to its employees and to other employers.
This success is a combined effort of all the relevant stakeholders of the city.

Many available National and European programs were utilized for the provision of effective interventions and of an adequate number of activities and measures. Scientifically specialized staff on sustainable mobility was involved in order to design, plan, construct, and maintain the projects best.

Over 20.000 bicycles in the city of 56.700 residents. Well-organized network of bicycle paths: 7,3km inside the city and 10,5km in the suburban area with over 1.600 parking spots. Extended shared bicycle system. Trend among younger people who left aside the motorized bikes. Certified cycle-friendly employer who leads by example. Bicycle-related entrepreneurship flourished. Many national and European awards on sustainable mobility, e.g. 1st among 3,125 EU cities in EMW2019, 2nd & 3rd in EMW2018.

Indeed, there were reactions and protests at first, mainly from car drivers who lost their domination on public space (both car driving lanes and parking spaces were decreased at once), but with persistence and patience, a total 180-degree shift of residents' viewpoints and habits was achieved.

The Municipality of Karditsa, Greece, comprises an excellent example, both on national and on European level, of how a city can achieve behavioral change towards bicycles and sustainable mobility in general. Following a mobility strategy with many interventions/measures consistently for many years and demonstrating political commitment, nowadays, it has reached the point that the bicycle has become the city's brand and cycling is a way of life for its residents. Thus, useful experience and insights can be shared with any local Authority interested.
Through this case study, it is proved that influencing citizens' daily transport habits is achievable for every city and region in Europe. Apart from engaging policymakers which is key, it needs time and a holistic approach, rather than fragmented actions. Also, it is important to look beyond the initially expected reactions, plan for the future like on a white canvas, and raise awareness by leading by example to inspire citizens.