Health impacts of transport

Urban transport and the way people and goods move in urban areas significantly impact our health, both negatively and positively. The transport sector is responsible for a wide range of impacts on human health originating from emissions, speeds, insufficient services, poorly designed infrastructure and public spaces, and the lack of space for green areas. These challenges must be addressed from different perspectives, such as promoting physical activity, reducing road injuries, improving air and noise quality, fostering social and mental health, etc.

Walking, wheeling and cycling, as active transport modes, are an effective way to enhance the well-being of people living in urban areas and play a crucial role in reducing health issues related to pollution, inactivity, stress, isolation and other conditions.

Projects

POLIS constantly advocates for active transport modes as central to improved mobility in European cities. From earlier work, such as the PASTA—Physical Activity through Sustainable Transport Approach—to brand new efforts, such as the HL4EU project, POLIS aims to continuously explore the different aspects and connections of health and transport within the Working Group on Active Travel & Health.