Paris’s famous Champs-Elysees will soon be closed to traffic one Sunday a month, allowing pedestrians to take over the broad, glittering avenue lined with some of the world’s most expensive stores. The decision is part of a drive to tackle air pollution in the city. This is not the first time the French capital has initiated such a measure. The city observed a car-free day last year with great success.
Dubai already has a car-free day, while Abu Dhabi observes an annual #cycletowork day. But this is a regular initiative we could use in some key areas in our cities, such as the Corniche in Abu Dhabi and Sheikh Zayed Road in Dubai. It's not just about pollution, but about changing our engagement with the urban environment.
Imagine pedalling or strolling along these places without worrying about cars. If we want everyone to enjoy our beautiful cities, we should seriously consider this. After all, it would only happen once a month.
