New WHO resource aligns with ISPAH’s 8 Investments to promote walking and cycling through systems-based change 

What is it about?  

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released a new policy toolkit to help governments, city planners, and health professionals promote walking and cycling. This resource offers a practical roadmap for embedding active mobility into everyday life and urban design. It presents seven key policy areas, real-world case studies, and implementation of enablers such as governance, financing, and legislation. 

Access the toolkit here 

Why is it important?  

Walking and cycling are simple, low-cost, and powerful tools to support physical activity, mental well-being, cleaner air, and road safety. However, in many countries, infrastructure and policies still prioritize private motor vehicles, contributing to traffic fatalities and urban health inequities. 

This toolkit arrives at a critical moment: as governments strive to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, this WHO-endorsed guide provides clear, actionable strategies. It supports efforts to build inclusive, safe, and people-centred mobility systems, strongly aligned with ثمانية استثمارات من ISPAH تعمل على تحسين النشاط البدني. 

What does the toolkit provide? 

The overall benefits of walking and cycling are presented, including their role in achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, improving physical and mental health, improving road safety, reducing inequalities, supporting the use of public transport and contributing to economic efficiency. 

The toolkit outlines seven strategic action areas: 

1. Policy integration – Make walking and cycling part of all relevant national and local strategies. 

2. Safe and connected infrastructure – Ensure complete, continuous, and protected routes. 

3. Inclusive street design – Create streets for users of all ages and abilities. 

4. Improved user behaviour – Promote road safety education and enforcement. 

5. Legal protection and prioritization – Establish regulations to support active modes. 

6. Integrated transport systems – Link walking and cycling with public transport. 

7. Promotion and incentives – Support behavioural change through communication and financial support. 

(WHO, 2025) 

It also discusses key factors for implementation, including good governance, civil society participation, strong advocacy, trained staff, supportive legislation, and sustainable funding. 

The toolkit also provides guidance on how to monitor progress, with suggestions for data collection and indicators, and concludes with a section on how to translate the recommendations into action at national and local level. 

The annexes provide additional tools and resources, such as WHO assessment tools, global targets, and links to relevant international guidelines. 

رسائل إلى المنزل  

• WHO’s new toolkit provides clear policy pathways to promote walking and cycling as part of national and local strategies. 

• It supports five of ISPAH’s Eight Investments, with strong relevance for transport, planning, health, and climate sectors. 

• It provides a practical roadmap for integrated action across multiple sectors to create healthier, more active communities. 

Reference: Promoting walking and cycling: a toolkit of policy options. Geneva: World Health Organization; 2025. Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 IGO.