The European Greenways Association (EGWA) was created in 1998 in Namur (Belgium) with the aim of encouraging the creation and promotion of greenways in Europe. It brings together nearly 50 different organizations from 14 European countries involved in the development of greenways. What is a Greenway?
“Communication routes reserved exclusively for non- motorized journeys, developed in an integrat
ed manner which enhances both the environment and quality of life of the surrounding area.These routes should meet satisfactory standards of width, gradient and surface condition to ensure that they are both user-friendly and low risk for users of all abilities. In this respect, canal towpaths and disused railway lines are a highly suitable resource for the development of greenways.” (Lille Declaration, september 2000). Common characteristics of greenways:
• They are accessible with slopes (either low or zero gradient) to accommodate all types of users, including mobility impaired people;
• They are safe due to their separation from roads;
• They have continuity as suitable solutions are found to overcome obstacles on the route;
• They are developed with respect for the environment and integrated into the landscape. Greenways promote:
• The preservation of cultural heritage: former railways, waterways, works of art;
• Sustainable mobility for daily travel (to work, school, shops) and leisure journeys;
• Sustainable tourism, rural development and local employment creation;
• Health through active travel (helping to prevent respiratory and cardiovascular disease, obesity, etc);
• The creation of wide-ranging services for users: cycle maintenance and hire, information, accommodation etc;
• Public participation and environmental awareness. Since its foundation in 1998, EGWA has...
• Contributed to the preservation of infrastructure such as disused railway corridors, tow paths and historic routes (Roman roads, pilgrims’ paths, etc) with the aim of converting them into traffic-free routes and maintaining public access to the land; Encouraged the use of non-motorized transport, by drawing up inventories of potential routes and technical reports;
• Promoted and coordinated the exchange of expertise and information between different
• Associations and national and local bodies involved in developing greenways throughout Europe;
• Advised local and national bodies on how to develop traffic-free routes;
• Collaborated with European bodies to support their policies on sustainable development,
• Environmental issues, regional balance and employment. Join EGWA!
• Our members are very diverse, coming from the private, public and non-profit sectors. They include government administrations at national, regional and local level; greenway managers and promoters; public transport companies; environmental and cultural associations and foundations, as well as private companies. Executive office:
Fundación de los Ferrocarriles Españoles
C/Santa Isabel, 44 • 28012 Madrid - Spain
Social Seat:
Rue van Opré 97, 5100 Namur - Belgium
