QUOTE OF THE DAY
There is a very real chance that with the right sort of investment we could create over 2 million green jobs.
Jill Warren
CEO European Cyclists' Federation
Plenary 6: Cycling to Boost the Economy and Save Energy + Closing Ceremony
The closing ceremony spotlighted cycling’s role in cutting energy use, achieving climate goals, and boosting the economy. Magda Kopczyńska kicked things off with an update on the European Commission’s actions since the adoption of the European Declaration on Cycling. While the declaration has helped move things forward, the panel agreed: there’s still a long road ahead to fully unlock cycling’s potential.
Jill Warren stressed the need for National Cycling Strategies and for cycling to be integrated into national climate plans—ideally, both at once, with coordinated efforts across government departments.
Lucas Harms from the Netherlands Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management explained that although the Netherlands doesn’t have a dedicated national cycling strategy, cycling is well-established in multiple policy areas—mobility, health, climate, spatial planning, and social policy. He highlighted the need for strong economic data to keep momentum going.
In Poland, cycling already contributes €21 billion to the economy, according to Mateusz Pytko, President of the Polish Bicycle Industry Association. But there’s even more potential if investment increases in infrastructure, safety, and a stronger European-based bicycle industry. Olivier Schneider supported this idea, saying “Europe needs local manufacturing, not just for jobs, but for sovereignty. We need to invest in resilience and coordinate together — make it a European effort.”
After the plenary, Aleksandra Dulkiewicz shared a heartfelt thank-you to the organisers, Velo-citizens, and the 2,500+ riders in the bike parade—earning a big round of applause. We're heading home with the energy of freedom and solidarity that Velo-city Gdańsk brought to us.
Next, Jill Warren was surprised with a warm tribute from the Velo-city community, thanking her for five and a half years of dedication at ECF. Thank you, Jill from all of us!
Finally, the baton passed from Aleksandra Dulkiewicz to Valentina Ridolfi, Deputy Mayor of Rimini. Velo-citizens got their first taste of Rimini's #GoodVibes with a video featuring Rimini’s most iconic figure—Federico Fellini.
Fridays's session highlights
IN-FOCUS
Some space oddity for better cycling – A performance with Alien Space Experts in 6 Acts
Space-loving Velo-citizens had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with actual extraterrestrials in the Yellow Room. Ytilibom and Ecaps, space experts from the funky planet galaxy, landed in Autopolis – a former paradise, now full of pavement for parking lots. Luckily, they ran into a local urban planner who took them across cities on three continents where people are starting to reclaim space from cars. They ended their stay on our planet by flying their spaceship to Gdansk and letting us in on what they learned on their journey: Earthlings really love their cars – often to the detriment of fair, fun and functional streets. But when we design streets for people, everyone ends up happier. The catch? Decision makers face opposition when dedicating more space to active mobility, so good promotion is key. Ytilibom and Ecaps left Earth not only with a lot of good music in store, but also with big hopes for the future of public space management on our planet.
Cycling happiness: Pedaling towards mental well-being
Velo-city 2025 explored cycling's economic, spatial and health benefits—but this session touched on a deeper, often overlooked aspect: mental health. Magdalena Lamentowicz bravely shared how cycling helped her through anxiety and depression, building strength and resilience along the way. The magic? It’s the feel-good chemicals our bodies release when we ride. Maria Amrani talked about a Danish programme that taps into that same effect to support people facing chronic illness, addiction, and social isolation. These slow, inclusive group rides prioritise connection over speed—everyone stays together. And it works: 78% keep coming back, and 80% says it's increased their mental health and made them ride more frequently. Maria Kåstrup reinforced these insights with data showing bike commuters are happier, more satisfied, and perform better. Cycling doesn't just move wheels—it moves people’s minds and hearts.
Meeting the demand: building secure bike parking in residential areas
Bike lanes dominate infrastructure talks, but where do people store their bikes after use? Speakers at this session highlighted the need for parking and shared their success secrets.
Charlotte Raymond got the ball rolling with Cyclo Parking, which has over 8,700 spots in Belgium—30% off-street. With on-street spaces hard to find, Cyclo has creatively used vacant garages, shared residential parking, and metro space. Her main tip? Focus on demand, not supply. Jens Müller of Clean Cities Campaign followed with their viral campaign showing real-life examples of inconvenient bike storage—from bathrooms to balconies—that made many say #ThisIsAwkward. It led to the first-ever government funding for bike parking, showing the impact of "evidence, emotions, and advocacy." Jos Muller is applying his experience in the Netherlands to Poland through Rowerado, offering racks and hangars with strong security features—key when theft is a major deterrent to owning a bike. Anthony Lau closed with how Cyclehoop is transforming UK cities with 45,000+ secure bike hangars, while pushing for more inclusive designs that consider people with disabilities.
The best of the rest
The Velo-city 2025 Scavenger Hunt ended on a high note with a family of four taking home the grand prize: a sleek, foldable Brompton bike in eye-catching yuzu lime. Working together as a team to complete each challenge, they embodied the Gdańsk spirit of solidarity — proving that curiosity, cooperation, and a love of cycling make for a winning combination!
THANK YOU FOR JOINING US IN GDANSK!
We hope it was a blast for those who were in attendance. For our readers, we hope our daily coverage gave you a good overview of all the sessions and activities during the event. See you in Rimini next year!
RELIVE THE BEST MOMENTS OF VELO-CITY 2025
Velo-city 2025 Gdansk: Tuesday Daily Report – Energizing Solidarity
Velo-city 2025 Gdansk: Wednesday Daily Report – A sea of cyclists rolls into town
Velo-city 2025 Gdansk: Thursday Daily Report – Power of the pedal
