VERA (Association for responsible urban development and communication) attempts to enhance international dialogue about investigation, preparation, implementation and support of measures that lead to innovative, liveable, environmentally conscious, sustainable cities.
Cities have an important role in promoting social change. In an increasingly urbanized world, the future of cities determines the well-being of future generations. As the world's population continues to be concentrated in cities, the negative impacts associated with transporting people and goods are increasing. Urban mobility is one of the sectors that will change the most in the future due to technological innovation and behavioral changes. Thus, an urban structure must be created where people are at the center instead of cars and traffic. A solution is needed where urban planning fits and adapts to people and not the other way around. Several innovative solutions can be applied in urban planning for sustainable urban development.
The activity of VERA Association can contribute to the European Union’s effort to spread the concept of smart urban development and contribute to the policy objectives of the European Union: (1) a more competitive and smarter Europe, (2) a greener, low‑carbon transitioning towards a net zero carbon economy, (3) a more connected Europe by enhancing mobility, and (4) Europe closer to citizens by fostering the sustainable and integrated development of all types of territories.
The specific aim of the VERA Association is to integrate the responsible innovation concept into the innovative urban development strategies to make the direction of the development of cities more responsible and sustainable. Within urban development our specific field of interest and study is the mobility of the cities, including innovative ways of mobility and transportation, and mainly autonomous driving systems.
According to the above, our association aims to help cities to prepare for the main challenges of concerning urban planning strategies and help them to become cities of the future successfully.