Driving a greener future: How GMC advances urban transport innovation

Cities are at the crossroads of human progress and planetary health. They generate 70 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, with transport as a stubbornly high contributor due to growing car travel and the increasing size of vehicles. As urban areas swell—projected to house 70 percent of the world population by 2050—the need for sustainable, human-centreed mobility solutions has never been greater. Events like Global Mobility Call (GMC) 2024 are stepping in to chart a transformative path forward.

Held from November 19 to 21 at IFEMA Madrid, GMC 2024 brought together over 8,000 attendees and saw a 20 percent increase in online participation, reflecting its rising influence. This year’s event focused on urban mobility’s critical role in addressing environmental challenges while enhancing human quality of life. Public and private sector leaders engaged in over 115 panels featuring 450 speakers, exploring cutting-edge solutions to make cities more liveable and ecosystems more resilient.

Rethinking mobility, building partnerships

GMC 2024 showcased pioneering technologies such as electric vehicles, autonomous transit systems, and innovations in smart infrastructure. These solutions aim to reduce emissions and curb urban congestion. A key highlight was the emphasis on scaling rapid-charging infrastructure to support a global shift toward electric transportation. By bridging technological advancements with real-world implementation, GMC is driving progress toward greener, more inclusive urban environments.

Central to GMC 2024 was its role as a bridge between public policy and private innovation. Collaboration emerged as a recurring theme, with discussions highlighting how governments can incentivise sustainable mobility through public-private partnerships. Addressing challenges like regulatory frameworks, financing mechanisms, and urban planning, these dialogues laid the groundwork for impactful, scalable solutions.

Human-centered local action in line with global goals

GMC 2024 comes at a pivotal moment on the global stage, following major events like COP29, the G20 Summit, and the World Urban Forum. These forums have underscored the urgent need to implement international sustainability commitments at national and local levels. GMC builds on this momentum, promoting the integration of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into urban transport strategies while fostering cooperation across sectors.

At its core, GMC 2024 emphasised the balance between technological innovation and human well-being. Discussions went beyond carbon reduction, focusing on creating mobility systems that enhance accessibility, equity, and quality of life. The event underscored the importance of designing cities that are not only functional but also nurturing—where people and nature thrive together.

Save the date: GMC 2025

Building on the success of this year’s event, the next Global Mobility Call is scheduled for 28-30 October 2025, at IFEMA Madrid. It promises to be another milestone in advancing sustainable urban transport. Mark your calendar to be part of this vital conversation.

GMC 2024 has demonstrated that the future of urban transport isn’t just about technology—it’s about creating healthier, more sustainable cities where people and nature coexist in harmony. By fostering innovation, partnerships, and actionable strategies, it is helping to rewrite the story of our urban future.