Ljubljana leads Slovenia’s sustainable mobility drive during EU Mobility Week with hydrogen buses, traffic training, and a citywide Car-Free Day on September 22, aiming to reduce emissions and promote healthier urban living.
As an experienced journalist covering European environmental initiatives, I’ve witnessed how cities that invest in sustainable transportation see tangible improvements in air quality and quality of life. Ljubljana’s latest efforts demonstrate Slovenia’s commitment to becoming a leader in green mobility.
Hydrogen-Powered Public Transport Takes Center Stage
Slovenia’s capital is rolling out hydrogen fuel cell buses as part of its public transportation fleet modernization. These zero-emission vehicles only emit water vapor, offering a significant improvement over traditional diesel buses.
"This isn’t just about adding a few new buses," explains urban mobility expert Dr. Ana Krajnc. "It’s part of a comprehensive strategy to decarbonize our entire transportation system while improving service quality for residents."
The hydrogen buses will operate on some of the city’s busiest routes, helping to reduce noise pollution in addition to greenhouse gas emissions.
Interactive Traffic Training for Safer Streets
Complementing the new vehicles, Ljubljana has set up traffic training installations throughout the city center. These interactive spaces allow both children and adults to learn about sustainable transportation options through engaging activities.
"Education is key to long-term behavior change," notes Marko Pavlic, a transportation psychologist. "By making sustainable mobility fun and accessible, Ljubljana is planting seeds that will grow into lasting habits."
The installations feature miniature cityscapes where visitors can experiment with different transportation scenarios, learning how mode shift can reduce congestion and improve air quality.
Car-Free Day: A Citywide Experiment
On September 22, Ljubljana will join cities across Europe in hosting a Car-Free Day. Major thoroughfares in the city center will be closed to motorized traffic, opening up space for pedestrians, cyclists, and public events.
This annual event not only raises awareness but also gives residents a firsthand experience of what cities can look like with fewer cars. Many participants report feeling inspired to change their daily commuting habits after experiencing the tranquility and improved air quality.
Beyond EU Mobility Week: A Long-Term Vision
While these initiatives are being highlighted during EU Mobility Week, they represent part of Ljubljana’s ongoing commitment to sustainable urban development. The city has already made significant strides in promoting cycling infrastructure and pedestrian zones.
Urban planners emphasize that true mobility transformation requires integrated solutions. "It’s not just about replacing vehicles," says city planner Eva Novak. "We’re redesigning public spaces, improving public transportation frequency, and creating incentives for sustainable choices."
As Ljubljana demonstrates, creating a greener transportation system is about more than reducing emissions—it’s about reimagining how people move through cities and interact with public spaces. The hydrogen buses, traffic training installations, and Car-Free Day events are not just symbolic gestures but practical steps toward a more sustainable future.
For residents and visitors alike, these changes offer a glimpse of urban life with cleaner air, less noise, and more space for community interaction—benefits that extend far beyond the official EU Mobility Week celebrations.