Beijing Proposes New Greenway Standards: Bans Female Poplar and Willow Trees, Mandates Barriers for Motor Vehicles and E-Bikes
Beijing is advancing sustainable urban mobility with proposed technical specifications for greenway construction, emphasizing safe, allergen-free paths for cyclists and pedestrians. The draft rules, open for public comment, prohibit planting female poplar and willow trees to reduce spring catkins and limit allergenic plants, while requiring barriers at entrances to block cars and electric bikes from rideable greenways. These measures aim to enhance greenway connectivity, prioritize native plants, and integrate with public transit for broader active transportation use.
Background
Greenways, or urban paths designed for walking, cycling, and recreation, are key to Beijing’s push for sustainable transportation infrastructure. The proposed “Technical Specifications for Urban Greenway Construction,” published by the Beijing Market Supervision Administration, outlines routing along parks, rivers, and community areas while avoiding major highways. Greening focuses on resilient native species, excluding fruit-dropping trees near paths and female poplars/willows notorious for airborne catkins that irritate allergies. To protect users, rideable greenways must feature vehicle and e-bike barriers with warning signs, alongside bike parking at rest areas, trailheads, and transit hubs within 150 meters of stations. This builds on Beijing’s ongoing non-motorized vehicle policies, promoting safe cycling networks amid growing urban green space demands.
Future Outlook
If adopted, these standards could set a model for global cities balancing green infrastructure with user safety and health, potentially boosting cycling adoption by creating cleaner, vehicle-free paths. Enhanced connectivity to transit and shaded parking may encourage daily commutes, aligning with worldwide sustainable transport goals like those from ITDP. Expect refinements based on public feedback, with implementation fostering healthier urban ecosystems and reduced reliance on cars.