Revolutionizing Transportation: The New Sustainable Mobility Law in Spain

On Wednesday, Congress approved the Sustainable Mobility Law, ushering in a transformative approach to transportation in Spain. This legislation is designed to decarbonize the transport sector, digitize its operations, and recognize mobility as a fundamental right for citizens. Furthermore, it aims to enhance the efficiency of public expenditure, promoting a more sustainable approach to how we move around cities and regions. Key components of the law include the implementation of a cogovernance system, the introduction of sustainable mobility plans for businesses, the electrification of transportation modes, and the reorganization of public transport networks. Below, we outline the principal measures proposed by the new law: ### Cogovernance Framework The law establishes the General System of Sustainable Mobility, modeled after the National Health System. It will introduce new instruments such as the Integrated Mobility Data Space (EDIM) and the Territorial Forum for Sustainable Mobility. An advisory body known as the Superior Council of Sustainable Mobility will also be created to guide this new initiative. ### Mobility Plans Private and public entities with more than 200 employees, or 100 per shift, have been mandated to create a sustainable mobility plan within the next two years. This requirement extends to large industrial and business sites, which must also develop and review their mobility plans at least every five years. ### Urban Transport Initiatives The law emphasizes the role of local entities in financing urban public transport through the State Fund for Contribution to Sustainable Mobility (FECMO). Cities are now obligated to encourage active mobility methods such as walking and cycling, boost public transport intermodality, and promote zero-emission vehicles. In pollution emergencies, transport infrastructure managers can restrict road access for certain vehicles to improve environmental conditions. ### Promoting Electromobility To facilitate the switch to electric transport, the government plans to install electric charging stations on roads and at gas stations, as well as fast and ultrafast charging points. By 2029, airports are required to implement electrical supply systems for aircraft parked remotely during commercial operations. Additionally, ports must provide electrical energy supply for moored vessels and heavy vehicle fleets by 2030. ### Innovations in Goods Transport The regulation seeks to establish rail highways on key corridors across Spain, with a dedicated plan being developed by the Ministry of Transport. To encourage freight traffic on rail, a system of bonuses for railway tolls will be introduced, promoting a modal shift from road transport to rail. ### Environmental Labels Update Within 12 months of the legislation coming into effect, the government will produce a study to refresh the environmental labels used by the General Directorate of Traffic, addressing the latest vehicle technologies and pollutant emissions, alongside carbon dioxide metrics. ### Reducing Domestic Flights and Reviving Night Trains The Ministry of Transport is tasked with minimizing domestic flights on routes that have a railway alternative of under two and a half hours. Exceptions will only be made for connections to international flights. Furthermore, there are plans to conduct a study aimed at reviving night train services. As Spain moves forward with this ambitious legislation, citizens and businesses alike will be expected to adapt to a new era of sustainable mobility, paving the way for a cleaner and more efficient transportation system. Stay informed with updates from El Huffpost through our mobile app available for both Android and iOS. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2