background image

Helsinki just went a full year without a single traffic death

author image

By illuminem briefings

· 2 min read


illuminem summarises for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on POLITICO or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Helsinki has recorded zero traffic-related fatalities in the past year, a milestone achievement for an EU capital
The city credits reduced speed limits, strategic urban design, and strict enforcement policies as key contributors to this outcome
Officials cite “Vision Zero” as a guiding framework aimed at eliminating all serious road injuries and deaths

🔭 The context: While road deaths declined by 3% across the EU in 2024, accidents in urban areas remain a persistent concern
In contrast to Helsinki, cities like Berlin and Brussels reported 55 and 9 road fatalities, respectively, over the same period
Helsinki, home to under 700,000 residents but part of a metro area with 1.5 million commuters, has pursued long-term, data-driven reforms since 2019, when it first reported no pedestrian or cyclist fatalities

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Helsinki’s achievement illustrates how sustainable urban planning and decarbonized transport investments can enhance both safety and environmental outcomes
By prioritizing public transit, cycling, and walkability over car dependency, the city reduced emissions while making streets safer
The model supports broader EU goals for climate resilience, urban liveability, and transport decarbonization

⏭️ What's next: Brussels is watching closely as the European Commission pushes for member states to meet the EU’s 2018 target of halving road fatalities by 2030
Helsinki’s example may influence future urban mobility frameworks, funding allocations, and legislative initiatives at the EU level
Continued investment in smart infrastructure, enforcement technology, and behavior-focused road design is expected across forward-leaning cities

💬 One quote: “It’s a lot of factors … but speed limits are one of the most important,” — Roni Utriainen, traffic engineer, City of Helsinki

📈 One stat: Traffic-related injuries in Helsinki dropped from 727 in 2003 to just 14 in 2023 — a 98% decrease over two decades

Explore carbon credit purchases, total emissions, and climate targets of thousands of companies on Data Hub™ — the first platform designed to help sustainability providers generate sales leads!

Click for more news covering the latest on ethical governance and sustainable cities

Did you enjoy this illuminem voice? Support us by sharing this article!
author photo

About the author

illuminem's editorial team, providing you with concise summaries of the most important sustainability news of the day. Follow us on Linkedin, Twitter​ & Instagram

Other illuminem Voices


Related Posts


You cannot miss it!

Weekly. Free. Your Top 10 Sustainability & Energy Posts.

You can unsubscribe at any time (read our privacy policy)