The parameters of air and noise pollution, congestions, and related accident rates are not encouraging[4], requiring urgent actions to develop a plan for sustainable mobility and behavioral travel change. Therefore, aligned with the Transport Development Strategy of the Republic of Slovenia until 2030[5], Integrated Transport Planning Act[6], Integrated Transport Strategy of Municipality of Novo mesto[7], and Comprehensive National Energy and Climate Plan of the Republic of Slovenia (NEPN)[8], the main goal of this project is to support climate changes mitigation and reduce vulnerability to them by developing a plan for sustainable mobility management in the SB NM high-traffic location. The project will support the transition to sustainable mobility modes of the SB NM’s main stakeholders through enhanced knowledge and travel habits change for improved environmental quality and stakeholders’ health and well-being. More specifically, our goal is to increase the percentage of employees, patients, and visitors that travel to the hospital by environmentally-friendly transportation alternatives by 6 % to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions. Next, we aim to improve the effectiveness of informing and raising awareness among employees and patients by 30 % on the convenient and easy-to-use sustainable mobility alternatives (e.g., regular and electric bikes, e-scooters, e-cars, pedestrian routes, buses, trains, or car-sharing) by relying on suitable information channels and new innovative IT tool. Nevertheless, we aim to upgrade the existing cycling and e-vehicles charging facilities to improve the access to sustainable transportation alternatives. Hence, the main target groups are employees, visitors, and patients of SBNM and the wider related stakeholders, such as municipalities representatives, public transport providers, NGOs, regional development agencies, and the general public.
Summary of bilateral results
Having bilateral partners in the project made a significant difference and played a crucial role due to enhanced collaboration and expertise sharing brought by bilateral partners with diverse perspectives, expertise, and resources. Nord University enriched the project’s approach, fostering innovative solutions and best practices from donor countries. Bilateral partners had in-depth knowledge of their respective contexts, including cultural differences, regulation and local stakeholders. Cultural exchange and joint initiatives helped build trust and understanding between countries. Bilateral partners extended the project’s reach, connecting it to wider networks and beneficiaries. Their involvement ensured that project outcomes were relevant and aligned with local needs. Their contributions amplified the project’s impact, enabling the implementation of additional measures and activities.
Bilateral partnership fostered collaboration between organizations from both countries and sectors. Joint efforts led to shared results (study visits, research & development), innovative solutions (understanding and monitoring of travel habits), and a deeper understanding of complex challenges about mobility and travel habits. Knowledge exchange enhanced project effectiveness and enriched all partners’ expertise. Bilateral partnership extended project reach beyond individual organizations. The partnership was presented to wider networks, beneficiaries, and communities with political representatives. By leveraging resources and expertise, bilateral collaboration amplified impact and contributed to sustainable development goals.