September was the first of Tallinn University of Technology’s Green Theme Months, focusing on transport and mobility. The month introduced parking restrictions at the Mustamäe campus but also offered opportunities for car-free movement. The aim of the initiatives was to turn the mobility pyramid from car-centred to people-centred.
Three bright pink campus bikes, donated by alumni, appeared on campus. These make it easier to move quickly between buildings without a car and without wasting time on short commutes. The bikes were refurbished with the help of X-Sport, a Nõmme-based bicycle shop, which also offers discounts to TalTech students and staff. The “campus bikes” are already in frequent use, and more donations of roadworthy bicycles are welcome.
The Tipikate Cycling Club mapped convenient cycling routes to Mustamäe campus from different parts of Tallinn and, with the support of the administration, added “wash points” to campus maps. To encourage cycling, the club also organised three Tuesday evening rides, or “tours of towers”, which led participants to the Estonian Maritime Academy, Tallinn Observatory, and Tallinn TV Tower.
In addition, experiences of car-free commuting were shared by members of the university community, and benefits of avoiding car use were highlighted.
At Student House parking lot, 15 spaces were turned into something more pleasant – covered with artificial grass, the area became a place for studying, eating, or socialising outdoors. A small sports corner with two outdoor gym machines and a basketball hoop proved popular throughout the month. Food trucks were present on several days, and Coop Bank and Tuleva organised “Afternoons of Financial Literacy” with investment-themed discussions.
The month culminated in International Car-Free Day, celebrated in the main building parking lot. With contributions from the Student Union, Bolt, the Formula Student team, Cultural Club DJs, TalTech Gaming Club and Sports Club, the 400 m² car park was covered with grass and partly with a 300 m² tent, transforming it into a relaxation zone. The space was used for working, meetings, competitions, games, and enjoying food, music, and sunshine. The day ended with a screening of the popular Estonian film Fränk, attended by director Tõnis Pill, casting director Heli Jürisson and three young actors. A lively Q&A followed, ending with several rounds of applause.
Although inconvenient for those who came by car, the event received much positive feedback and ideas for next year.
Finally, in the last week of September, a large screen in the main building lobby displayed live departure times of nearby public transport. Similar permanent screens will soon be installed at all main exits, making it easier to catch a suitable bus or train.