To date, more and more European cities are adopting a speed limit of 30 km/h in residential areas, including Greece.

Several studies of Brussels, Paris and Zurich cities have shown that speed limits improved road safety, reducing the possibility of an accident.

The limit that saves lives

On average, the application of 30 km/h speeds in European cities has shown 23% reduction in traffic accidents, 37% of deaths and 38% in injuries.

All this, when the European Union’s road safety framework for the period 2021-2030 is to achieve a reduction of 50% of traffic accidents and serious injuries by 2030, with the ultimate goal of “zero deaths on the roads” by 2050.

Significant benefits for the urban environment

The lower speed limits also brought about environmental benefits, with emissions averaging 18%, 2.5 dB noise pollution and 7%fuel consumption, which means improved fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impacts.

All studies (there is also a study by the Department of Engineering, Spatial Planning and Transport of the National Technical University of Athens) encourage citizens to adopt walking, cycling and the use of public transport services to contribute to a safer and environmental environment.

By analyzing the main advantages of low speed limits, it seems that lower speeds can immediately benefit the environment through reduction of direct and indirect emissions.

Specifically, the highest speed limits in urban environments are associated with abrupt acceleration and braking. The calmer and slower driving can reduce carbon monoxide emissions, volatile organic compounds and nitrogen oxides.

Studies have shown that the noise caused by traffic is the main noise pollution In cities, representing about 80% of all noise sources in public areas. In urban environments, where speeds range from 30 to 60 km/h, the reduction of the speed limit by just 10 km/h can lead to a reduction in noise levels by up to 40%.

In areas with high levels of motor traffic and high -speed vehicles, walking can be discouraged and movements for citizens are limited. These high levels of traffic can be a key reason that will prevent children from safely crossing the roads to get to school.

Finally, lower speed limits often meet resistance due to concern about possible increases in travel times and traffic congestion.

However, research has shown that any such effects range between 3 and 5% and in some cases the lower speed limits can improve travel times, improving congestion levels.

So despite fears that lowering speed limits can lead to slower movement, studies indicate that the benefits of improved security and other factors often outweigh any change in travel times.