Mafra's Walking School Bus Cuts Traffic and Teaches Kids Green Habits
A new pilot scheme in Mafra is encouraging children to walk to school in organised groups. Called PediPediBus – Let’s Go on Foot, the initiative aims to cut traffic and pollution around three local primary schools. Trained volunteers ensure the young participants stay safe on their journey. Children taking part in the scheme walk to school in a supervised line, much like a bus route but on foot. The project not only reduces congestion and emissions but also gives pupils daily exercise and a chance to socialise. Some, like seven-year-old Duarte Coelho, enjoy spotting birds along the way and knowing they’re helping the planet. Eight-year-old Alisa Yartseva prefers walking over being driven, as she believes cars create too much pollution.
Parents can register their children for the initiative and receive alerts when they arrive safely. An app, currently under development by students at Mafra’s Vocational School, will help manage the programme. As an extra incentive, participants gain free access to swimming sessions at municipal pools. Supporters highlight broader benefits, too. Walking builds independence, improves spatial awareness, and helps children start the day with more energy. The scheme also teaches them about environmental responsibility from a young age.
The PediPediBus pilot is now active in three Mafra schools, relying on community volunteers to keep routes secure. With fewer cars on the road, organisers expect cleaner air and safer streets. The programme’s success could see it expand to more schools in the future.
