SUMPs Course to Support Sustainable Development in Cities
As urban areas continue to expand, new challenges arise in making growth and quality of life compatible. Many of the societal issues we face today, such as air, soil, and noise pollution, climate change, congestion, and road safety, are closely linked to urban mobility. In this context, Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMPs) have emerged as strategic documents that define how mobility should evolve to meet commuting and distribution needs while enhancing urban living conditions.
Creating a SUMP is the first step toward promoting sustainable and safe urban mobility. However, SUMPs must undergo constant monitoring and updating to incorporate new technologies and address the evolving challenges of a rapidly changing society.
In response to these needs, the SUMPS project was launched with the goal of developing a course to support Spanish municipalities in the design, implementation, and monitoring of their SUMPs. The project is led by a consortium composed of UPC, CARNET, AMB, and DIREXIS, which brings together expertise in research, innovation, public management, consultancy, and logistics.
The course will cover foundational content on SUMPs to build a solid knowledge base, but will place special emphasis on addressing emerging challenges and innovative solutions. Topics include the full cycle of SUMP creation, implementation, and monitoring, as well as the regulatory framework, governance, and participation processes. In addition, traditional issues such as spatial impacts, public transport, and logistics will be examined from fresh perspectives, alongside dedicated sessions on innovation and technology in mobility. The course will also explore the intersection of mobility with societal and environmental challenges, including discussions on gender, health, and pollution.
The programme is structured into two modules. Module I offers a theoretical approach via asynchronous online learning, while Module II consists of an in-person seminar that emphasizes discussion and collaboration, supported by applied lectures and case studies. This design aims to expand general knowledge about SUMPs, provide specific information on the Spanish context, and encourage the exchange of experiences among Spanish municipalities. The programme is expected to enhance the quality of SUMPs by fostering critical discussions, sparking improvements, expanding the toolkit of urban mobility experts, and promoting cooperation.
The course is free of charge and starts on October 21st. Applications are already open and accessible here.
Project supported by EIT Urban Mobility.
