Launch of WHO’s Promoting Walking and Cycling: A Toolkit of Policy Options
Road traffic injuries are a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, with nearly 1.2 million people killed and as many as 50 million people injured each year. Globally, more than 1 of every 4 road traffic deaths are pedestrians and cyclists. The 8th UN Global Road Safety Week draws attention to the need to make walking and cycling safe. When safe, these modes should be prioritized as they can help make people healthy, cities sustainable and societies equitable.
To kick off the Week WHO will host a global webinar Streets for Life: Unlocking the Multiple Benefits of Safe Walking and Cycling. The virtual event will celebrate the Week and serve as the occasion to launch WHO’s new policy guidance: Promoting Walking and Cycling: A Toolkit of Policy Options. This new guidance outlines seven evidence-based policy actions to promote safe, inclusive, and accessible environments for more safe walking and cycling. The webinar will feature presentation of the new guidance; a panel discussion sharing insights from global experts; and national and local spotlights showcasing how smart policy can unlock co-benefits across health, mobility, environment, and economy.
Various regional webinars are also being planned.