There is no essential right to drive a car. In contrast, all urban residents should have a guaranteed minimum right to green areas, public space, protected carfree areas, child-friendly areas, quiet spots, and clean air. In order to achieve this, urban planning design should allocate significant carfree space in every neighborhood in proportion to the resident population.

 

Just as many cities now provide their citizens with spaces free from tobacco smoke, so also urban residents should be ensured minimum rights to enjoy their neighborhood, without being subject to the threat of personal injury, loss of space, urban blight, and air pollution. Children need to have safe places to play, explore, and grow up, without having to be confined to their homes or placed in front of screens.