Assessing traffic-generated "dread" risk

by Alan G. Hallsworth, Colin Black, David Evans & Rodney Tolley

The decision process behind observed individual behaviour is known to be a complex one. This is especially so when aspects of that same behaviour are apparently contradictory. Introduces a measurement scale for revealing underlying motivations for behaviour. Focusses on the trip to school by car; apparently favoured by individuals on safety grounds, however, it also leads to extra trips and therefore increases car-borne pol-lution. Tests the scale in a survey involving British geography undergraduates.

The impact of improved ferry services on an island economy: the case of Mull

by Hugh M. Begg, Bob Henderson, Peter Tyler & Colin Warnock

Sets out the methodology developed to establish the impact of an enhanced ferry service on the Island of Mull in Scotland. The work on which it is based was undertaken for the (former) Scottish Office Industry Department in co-operation with Highlands and Islands Enterprise and Caledonian Macbrayne Ltd. Their principal concern was the impact of operating and capital subsidies made available to CalMac as operator of services throughout the Western Isles. The research improves understanding of ways in which transport in-frastructure can enhance the prospects for remote rural communities and the local economies on which they depend.

A path out of the wilderness?

by Angus W. Witherby

The discipline of transport planning is in conceptual disarray, yet the techniques and models of yesteryear continue to be applied. Argues that we need a new conceptual framework for deciding what methods to ap-ply and how to apply them to produce liveable cities. Concludes that eco-relational thinking may offer a use-ful framework.

Placebo or panacea? Rural transport corridors: some social and environmental issues

by Amanda Root and William J. Fielding

Travel poverty, defined as "inadequate access to choice in relation to travel", is faced by those who cannot travel as much as they would like, or who have inadequate local amenities, reducing options about travel. The context for this study is increasing rural car use and by policies which directly or indirectly promote it, damaging the quality of live and the environment and lessening the safety of public space. Presents evidence from a study of two rural villages indicating that the development of public transport corridors might, in some circumstances and to some extent, meet sustainability (i.e. environmental, equity and participation) ob-jectives. Also discusses possible limits to the effectiveness and potential disadvantages of developing rural public transport corridors. Raises the particular effectiveness of rail corridors in meeting environmental ob-jectives.

Freight transport, food production and consumption in the USA and Europe (or, how far can you ship a bunch of onions in the USA?)

by Stefanie Bšge

Focuses on freight transportation, food supply and consumer behaviour in the USA and Europe, especially Germany. Finds that on both sides of the Atlantic, in freight transportation and food supply there are many differences as well as similarities. The main differences are that the USA has a bigger land area and larger, more concentrated economic units. Naturally, therefore, one finds a higher volume of long distance freight transport than in Europe. Similarities can be observed such as the trend towards privatisation and liberalisa-tion, to more extended suburbanisation or to an unreflected way of consumer behaviour. In addition raises some new questions: is the "technical solution" of environmental problems the only way? What can be cone to include lifestyles and consumer behaviour into a new strategy?

Car-free households: who lives without an automobile today?

by Ulrike Reutter & Oscar Reutter

Considers methods to reduce private car ownership. Argues that conventional strategies are approaching the limits of their efficacy. Concludes that the solution lies in implementing car-free zones.

Road construction and economic growth from a southern European perspective

by Gianni Silvestrini

Claims that economic development should be decoupled from transport growth, as conventional economic growth stimulates demand for transportation infrastructure, particularly roads, with consequent environ-mental repercussions. Feels that potential impact on the environment should be assessed, particularly in rela-tion to global warming. Explores alternative solutions to building new roads and gives examples from Spain, Italy, Austria and Switzerland.

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