Transport and the environment

This chapter examines the potential contribution of the transport sector to environmental sustainability. It has three parts: first, the scale of the challenge is outlined, including current levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other impacts. Second, we discuss the need for visions for sustainable transport, including scenario building, addressing environmental limits, and the sustainable mobility paradigm. We speculate how visioning and scenarios might become more central to decision-making. This would allow forward-looking strategies and programmes, focused on the achievement of long-term policy objectives, to be developed more effectively. A wide range of policy measures can be utilised in strategy development, including Avoid, Shift and Improve measures. Finally, we reflect on the implications of such a revised approach for research and practice, including resolving issues of constrained space, capacity and prioritisation between modes. Transport planning can be developed as a participatory and deliberative process, providing access to transport and activities for all.