Mechelen

Welcome to Mechelen, where tradition meets tomorrow. Nestled in the heart of the province of Antwerp, Mechelen stands as a testament to the charm and resilience of European cities. Its cobblestone streets and historic ramparts paint a picturesque scene that enchants visitors. But Mechelen is more than just a pretty face – it’s a city with a bold vision for the future.

Pioneering Urban Logistics

In 2011, Mechelen took a pioneering step towards sustainable urban living with its UVAR system. This plan, including car-free zones and restricted delivery schedules, set the stage for a greener, more efficient city. Their commitment to sustainability continues with ongoing infrastructural improvements aimed at prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists.

But the city’s dedication to sustainability extends beyond its borders. As a proud participant in the UNCHAIN project, Mechelen is tackling the challenges of urban freight distribution head-on. From reducing CO2 emissions to improving air quality, Mechelen is working towards a more environmentally conscious future for all.

What is their role in UNCHAIN?

In the UNCHAIN project, Follower Cities play a crucial role in the implementation and demonstration of solutions developed in the project. These cities, Mechelen, Prague, Riga, and Funchal, work alongside the primary demonstration sites of Madrid, Berlin, and Florence to maximize the geographical coverage and replicability of solutions across Europe.

Mechelen has decided to support the demonstration of many different UNCHAIN services:

• Service 2: SUMPs and SULPs guidance tool
• Service 3: Freight-efficient land use strategy
• Service 6: Active UVARs and city regulations tools
• Service 7: Knowledge Powerhouse for urban logistics
• Service 13: Advanced management IT cockpit of shared facilities