What Is Active Mobility?

Simone Veil bridge - Bordeaux

Active mobility refers to all non-motorized modes of transport powered by human energy, such as walking, cycling, scooters, rollerblading and other personal mobility devices.

Today, active mobility lies at the heart of ecological transition policies, public health strategies and the transformation of urban spaces. 

By reducing dependence on cars, active mobility helps streamline daily travel and improve quality of life in city centers.

Your Challenges: Why Develop Active Mobility?

Local authorities and public space managers face new challenges related to everyday travel patterns.

Reducing Pollution and Noise

Active mobility is a powerful lever to reduce:

  • greenhouse gas emissions,
  • fine particulate pollution,
  • noise pollution generated by road traffic.

It contributes to calmer, more livable urban environments.

Improving Public Health

Walking and cycling promote daily physical activity, helping to reduce the risks of:

  • cardiovascular diseases,
  • sedentary lifestyles,
  • obesity.

Encouraging active mobility is a long-term investment in collective health.

Reducing Congestion in City Centers

By offering a credible alternative to private cars, active mobility helps to:

  • reduce traffic congestion,
  • improve travel fluidity,
  • limit space consumption related to car parking.

Our Solutions for Developing Active Mobility

Colas supports local authorities in the design and construction of infrastructure that promotes walking and cycling, taking into account user needs, traffic flows and urban constraints.

Cycling Infrastructure and Pedestrian Continuity

Colas delivers:

  • one-way and two-way cycling lanes,
  • greenways,
  • pedestrian zones,
  • safe and continuous links between neighborhoods,
  • intermodal connections (BRT, tramways, railway stations).

These developments structure coherent active mobility networks.

Safe and Attractive Urban Design

To encourage walking and cycling, safety is essential:

  • optimized lighting,
  • enhanced signage,
  • clear separation of traffic flows,
  • traffic-calmed intersections,
  • 30 km/h zones and pedestrian-priority areas.

Colas designs readable, comfortable and welcoming public spaces.

Surfaces and Pavements Adapted to Active Uses

Pavement solutions play a key role in comfort and safety:

  • anti-slip surfaces,
  • permeable materials,
  • flexible surfaces for pedestrian areas,
  • aesthetic finishes that enhance route attractiveness.

These materials improve both the durability of infrastructure and the user experience.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Active Mobility
    Which transport modes are considered active mobility?

    Walking, cycling, non-motorized scooters, rollerblading, skateboarding—any mode powered by human energy.

    Why develop active mobility in cities?

    To reduce pollution, improve public health, ease congestion and enhance the attractiveness of public spaces.

    What are the main barriers to walking and cycling?

    Discontinuous routes, interaction with motorized traffic, safety concerns, lack of adapted infrastructure and insufficient bicycle parking.

    How does Colas support local authorities?

    By designing coherent cycling networks, secure pedestrian routes, user-adapted pavement solutions and integrating biodiversity and permeability into urban projects.

    Is active mobility compatible with public transport?

    Yes. Active mobility complements public transport by improving access to railway stations, BRT and tramway stops, and strengthening intermodality.

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