Sustainable and healthy transport systems: realising the potential of walking

Supplemental Notes:
- Australia’s transport and urban planning systems have fuelled an unsustainable and unhealthy dependence on cars as our primary mode of travel. As a result, major challenges such as congestion, pollution, high infrastructure costs, road accidents, urban sprawl, peak oil and ill health resulting from sedentary lifestyles, not only face the transport and planning sectors, but also those working in environmental sustainability, road safety and public health. A strong evidence base suggests that in order for people to choose active transport modes over a short car trip, the environment must provide the necessary prompts and supports for physical activity. For example, walking for transport is associated with living in neighbourhoods that have good access to local destinations (shops, services and public transport stops/stations), connected street networks, and higher residential densities. It is practical advice regarding how local government can provide accessible, connected and safe walking and cycling
Authors:
- Horton, K
- Carlisle, R
Conference:
- Australian Institute of Traffic Planning and Management (AITPM) National Conference, 2009, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
Publication Date: 2009-8

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