Achieving Resilience and Sustainability in Spain's Public Transportation: Insights from Marta Serrano Balbuena

Mobility Redefined

Host: Dr. Kaan Yıldızgöz

Guest: Marta Serrano Balbuena, Secretary General of Land Transport, Spanish Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility

Episode Overview:

In this episode of the Mobility Redefined podcast, Dr. Kaan Yildizgoz welcomes Marta Serrano Balbuena, Secretary General of Land Transport at Spain's Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility. Marta discusses her career journey, sustainable mobility initiatives, the impact of recent floods on Spain’s transport infrastructure, and the resilience of the transport system. They also delve into active mobility, decarbonization, the development of Spain’s high-speed rail network, and the transition to electric mobility. Marta highlights the importance of addressing gender equity in transport and the need for gender-inclusive infrastructures to ensure a safer and more accessible public transport system for all.

Key Topics Discussed:

Impact of Recent Floods on Spain's Transport

Recent floods severely disrupted Spain's transport system, particularly Valencia's metropolitan railway and the A7 highway. The Ministry responded swiftly by reopening the high-speed railway and building a temporary bypass for the collapsed A7 bridge. Over 300 personnel and 100 buses ensured continued connectivity for residents.

Climate Resilience in Transport

Extreme weather events in Europe have risen by 60% in the past 30 years. Marta stressed the need for better protocols, proactive measures like halting rail services before floods, and rapid responses to save lives and reduce damage. Spain aims to create a faster, adaptive, and resilient transport system.

Spain’s High-Speed Rail Network

Spain has the second-largest high-speed rail network globally, with ongoing development of the Mediterranean and Atlantic Corridors to boost passenger and freight transport. Rail freight remains low at 4%, compared to Europe’s 10-12% average, with funding largely from the EU's Next Generation funds.

Decarbonisation of Public Transport

Buses dominate global public transport at 80%, and Spain is investing in electric and hydrogen technologies for decarbonisation. Electric buses are ideal for urban routes, while hydrogen suits long-haul and freight needs. Plans include a dense network of charging stations, with one every 60 km, to meet EU targets.

Active Mobility and Urban Redesign

Spain’s low-emission zones foster cycling and pedestrian-friendly spaces, extending beyond city centres. Funding for bike-sharing systems and incentives for electric bicycles aim to enhance active mobility. Marta calls for multimodal systems prioritising sustainability and accessibility.

Gender Equality in Transport

Women comprise over 60% of public transport users but are underrepresented in the workforce. Marta advocates for gender-inclusive infrastructure like well-lit tunnels, safe bus stops, and initiatives to attract women to the sector. Addressing safety concerns is critical, with up to 80% of women reporting feeling unsafe in transit spaces at night.

Memorable Quotes:

“The freedom to move safely cannot depend on your gender.” – Marta Serrano Balbuena

"For every person-kilometre travelled, public transport emits far less pollution than private cars. The future lies in making it the preferred choice for all." – Marta Serrano Balbuena

“Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent, and we must adapt faster to save lives and ensure resilient transport systems." – Marta Serrano Balbuena

Learn More About Our Guest:

Marta Serrano Balbuena is a leading figure in sustainable mobility. As Spain’s Secretary General of Land Transport, she champions innovative policies to enhance transport infrastructure, climate resilience, and inclusivity. Marta also co-founded Women in Motion Spain, advocating for gender equality in mobility.

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Mobility Redefined is brought to you by Modaxo https://www.modaxo.com

Host: Dr. Kaan Yildizgoz

Producer: Mike Cartmel

Executive Producer: Darren Turpin

Special thanks to:

Brand design: Tina Olagundoye

Digital Media: Belén Iturrioz Campo

Marketing content and Mobility Redefined newsletter: Mike Cartmel

If you have a question or comment, email us at [e-mail]

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:11 Marta's Career Journey

04:34 Impact of Recent Floods on Spain's Transport

08:06 Climate Resilience in Transport Systems

12:26 Future of High-Speed Rail in Spain

16:22 Decarbonizing Public Transport

20:34 Promoting Active Mobility

23:01 Gender Equality in Mobility

28:35 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the guests, and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Modaxo Inc., its affiliates or subsidiaries, or any entities they represent (“Modaxo”). This production belongs to Modaxo, and may contain information that may be subject to trademark, copyright, or other intellectual property rights and restrictions. This production provides general information, and should not be relied on as legal advice or opinion. Modaxo specifically disclaims all warranties, express or implied, and will not be liable for any losses, claims, or damages arising from the use of this presentation, from any material contained in it