Road traffic injuries are a major global health issue, causing around 1.2 million deaths and millions more serious injuries every year. Densely populated urban areas with complex traffic flows account for most of these numbers.

Despite efforts in the public and civic sector to borrow ideas from peers and promote “what works,” proven and promising ideas on reducing traffic deaths rarely go viral and independent replication efforts often fail.

The Bloomberg Cities Idea Exchange shares proven solutions through no-cost training, technical assistance, peer-to-peer learning and more. The ideas elevated have demonstrated impact and are highly effective. For example, reducing vehicle speeds reduces the chances and severity of crashes (excess speeds contribute to half of all road traffic fatalities worldwide).

WRI Ross Center’s work through the Bloomberg Cities Idea Exchange focuses on speed management commitments and implementations that create safer streets in urban areas around the world. WRI helps cities test, set and enforce speed limits in accordance with World Health Organization recommendations for urban areas and other best practices alongside engaging communities on road safety benefits.

Watch Bloomberg Cities Idea Exchange webinars on YouTube

Since 2007, Bloomberg Philanthropies, through the support of WRI and other partners, has saved lives and reduced injuries from traffic crashes through these interventions in over 50 cities and provinces. By 2030, these efforts are projected to save nearly 312,000 lives. 

WRI and Bloomberg Philanthropies’ support for cities includes: 

  • Ideas: Proven and promising city solutions that effectively address a range of common urban challenges.
  • Technical Assistance: Hands-on technical assistance and coaching delivered to city leaders as they assess, import and implement ideas.
  • Exposure to What’s Next: Ongoing training, events and programming to learn about the latest ideas that are available and ready to spread.
  • Operational Blueprints: Insights, guides and toolkits created with other city leaders who have brought these ideas to life.
  • Connections to City Peers: Learning, problem-solving and strategy-sharing with local government officials across cities.

Cover image by Secretaría Distrital de Movilidad de Bogotá