Among children, active transportation rate stands at 67%
Active transportation among children in Reykjavík on their way to school — including those who walk or use bicycles or scooters — was 67%, according to the annual transportation survey. This percentage has stayed fairly consistent over recent years.
Active transportation among people 18 and older measured 22%, comparable to last year's findings. The rate was lowest in 2008 at about 11%.
Each year, Gallup surveys residents' transportation habits to work and school for Reykjavík City's Department of Environment & Planning. Data collection took place in October 2024 and has used similar methods since 2008. The survey was conducted online with a sample of 1,814 people and a response rate of nearly 40%.
How did children get to school and adults get to work or school?
- More than 67% of adults drive to work or school, with 3% traveling as passengers, bringing the total share for private car use to 70%.
- Seven percent of adult Reykjavík residents use public transportation (the city bus).
- Of those surveyed, 11% walk, 5% bicycle, 3% travel by electric scooter and 3% by electric bicycle. Combined, active transportation accounts for 22% of trips.
Adults
- Among adults traveling to work or school, 67% drive.
- 11% walk.
- and 5% bicycle.
Children
- In total, 67% of children use active transportation to get to school.
- 52% walking.
- Another 27% of children travel to school by private car.
Active transportation supports public health
Changing transportation habits are linked to the city's development priorities, residents' public health and climate change issues. Reykjavík's municipal plan includes a goal to reduce car trips to 50% of all transportation by 2040.
Active transportation is a key factor in improving public health for city residents. Changing transportation habits is essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Reykjavík, since 70% of all emissions come from transportation.