The European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF), in collaboration with Content With Purpose (CWP), is releasing a series of films on the social, economic and health impacts of cycling in Europe. The series will be available free of charge from 17 September 2026 available.
The productions were filmed in 21 countries, cities and regions. The material comprises 16 documentaries, 7 expert interviews, 12 thought-leadership films, one explanatory film and 3 case studies. The filming locations range from Finland to the United Kingdom and Spain.
A film series with six key themes
The film series is divided into six sections. “Cycling economies” looks at employment, industry and regional economic development. “Health on two wheels” examines the impact on physical and mental health. “Designing the cycling city” showcases infrastructure projects and integrated transport systems.
The section ‘Pedalling towards a climate-positive future’ provides information on emissions reduction and air quality. ‘Innovation in motion’ showcases research, product development and new technologies. ‘Cycling without borders’ covers cross-border cycle routes and tourism.
A series of films on the European Declaration on Cycling
The film series follows the adoption of the European Declaration on Cycling. This recognises cycling as a sustainable, accessible and affordable mode of transport that is important to the European economy. The declaration commits to the development of safe and connected cycle networks, to improving connections with public transport, and to expanding safe cycle parking facilities.
Laurianne Krid, CEO of the European Cyclists’ Federation, explains: “The series shows just how much cycling can benefit society as a whole. Cycling is linked to mobility, but it also plays a key role in improving public health, boosting sustainability and supporting the European economy. It helps communities build bridges between different age groups, abilities and backgrounds.”
Data on mobility and emissions
One third of the EU’s population does not meet the recommended levels of physical activity. Cars account for 50 per cent of all journeys and over 70 per cent of passenger-kilometres in the EU. The transport sector generates a quarter of the EU’s greenhouse gas emissions, with road transport accounting for three quarters of these emissions.
The World Health Organisation describes walking and cycling as accessible and cost-effective ways of increasing physical activity. Active mobility can support mental wellbeing and reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases.
Participating partners and experts
Partners in the film series include the Central Denmark Region, the cities of Brno, Groningen and the Helsinki Urban Environment Division, Cyclehoop, ETH Zurich, the European Commission, Flanders, Kalkhoff Bikes, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Lyft Urban Solutions, the Pomeranian Tourist Board, the Province of Gelderland, RedBici.org and SDCC.
Experts from various fields have their say: Áron Haláz, Head of the Active and Micromobility Group at the Municipality of Budapest; Anastasiia Makarenko, Executive Director of U-Cycle; Carole Straub, Head of Cycling Promotion at Pro Velo Switzerland; Dr Caroline Lodemann, Executive Director of the Allgemeiner Deutscher Fahrrad-Club; Ruth Lamas Borraz, Head of the Metropolitan Bicycle Office at the Área Metropolitana de Barcelona; Sarah Whitebread, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at Cycling UK; and Sheila Watson, Deputy Director of the FIA Foundation.
Implementation of policy guidelines
Cycling has gained a stronger foothold in European transport, climate and health policy, but progress remains uneven. Translating political commitments into everyday changes requires sustained investment, safe infrastructure, supportive policies and cooperation between governments, civil society, the research sector, businesses and local communities.
Max Smith, founder and managing director of CWP, says: “Our vision is a world in which everyone feels empowered to play their part in creating a better tomorrow, and cycling is one way of doing just that. This series brings together practical solutions and personal stories from across Europe, demonstrating that healthier, better-connected and more sustainable places are not just a distant ambition.”
Creators of the TV series
The European Cyclists’ Federation represents more than 70 member organisations in over 40 countries. The organisation works in the areas of policy, infrastructure, road safety, EuroVelo, cycle tourism, the economy, data and research.
Content With Purpose is certified as a B Corp and is a member of 1% for the Planet. The company produces digital series featuring documentaries, interviews and articles for associations and organisations.
ECF and CWP invite media organisations, public authorities, educational institutions and cycling organisations to share the series and use it to spark discussions about the future of mobility.
Kristian Bauer
Editor