51ºÚÁÏ

Workbook and Powerpoint covering 2.4.2 Transport issues in cities. Enquiry question: Why has transport become a
key issue in many cities and how can it be best managed?

• Industrialisation, economic development and rising affluence have led to rapid increases in motor vehicle numbers in cities
(motorbikes, cars, goods vehicles).
• Urban air pollution (particulate matter, low level ozone, NOx) levels are partly explained by increases in transport pollution
as well as physical factors and other sources (domestic, industrial).
• Traffic congestion has implications for urban economic development and human wellbeing (stress, pollution exposure,
length of the working day).
• Air pollution levels are considered unsafe (WHO standards) in some cities with implications for human health, especially for
some groups (old, young people).
• Major infrastructure projects may reduce urban transport problems (light rail, metro, major road developments) but these have costs and benefits.
• Planning solutions also attempt to reduce car use and/or emissions (congestion charging, pedestrianisation, park and
ride, no-drive days, road pricing) with mixed success.