What Are Low-Car Zones?
Low-car zones are urban areas where car use is significantly restricted. This can range from reducing parking spaces to creating entirely car-free streets. Examples in Europe include parts of Oslo, Madrid, and Paris. The outcomes? Reduced CO₂ emissions, cleaner air, and more space for greenery and active mobility such as walking and cycling.
The Evolving Role of the Facility Manager
In low-car zones, the role of facility managers shifts from traditional building management processes to more sustainable and people-centered solutions. Three core responsibilities stand out:
- Logistics and Mobility
Facilitating sustainable mobility for employees is one of the greatest challenges. This includes:- Providing safe and spacious bike storage for all types of bikes, including cargo bikes.
- Installing charging points for electric bicycles.
- Partnering with shared mobility and transportation service providers.
- Sustainable Building Management
Reduced car dependency opens up opportunities to redesign spaces, such as:- Transforming parking lots into green buffers that promote biodiversity.
- Implementing energy-efficient measures, such as incorporating greenery around buildings.
- Health and Well-Being
Low-car zones contribute to a better living environment, which directly impacts employee health and satisfaction. Facility managers can leverage this by:- Creating outdoor spaces for walking, sports, collaboration, and social interaction.
- Launching initiatives to promote active mobility, such as cycling and walking.
How Can Facility Managers Support Low-Car Zones Successfully?
- Collaboration with Local Governments and Communities
Municipalities and other organizations often offer subsidies and support to ease the transition to low-car zones. By actively collaborating, facility managers can fully leverage these opportunities. - Monitoring and Optimization
Using data analysis, facility managers can monitor the use of facilities such as bike storage and shared mobility services. This enables them to make adjustments that align with employee needs and organizational goals.
Inspiring Examples
For instance, a company in Oslo drastically reduced the number of parking spaces and instead implemented extensive cycling infrastructure. This led to higher employee satisfaction and lower absenteeism. Similarly, in Madrid, some companies have transformed parking lots into green meeting spaces, fostering a better workplace atmosphere.
In Summary
The transition to low-car zones requires a new approach to facility management. By focusing on sustainable mobility, smart building management, and employee well-being, facility managers can play a key role in the success of organizations within these zones. With the right strategy, low-car zones present not just challenges but also opportunities for healthier, greener, and more productive workplaces.