Transport and health ; present and future

In this chapter, we provide a summary of the book for transport and its effects on health, recent and future developments, tools, designs and policies, and education and workforce development. Transport is an essential component of economic and social progress and is often envisioned as a driver for urban development and a key contributor to economic returns. Yet, transport has direct negative, and potentially positive, impacts on the health of a population. These impacts are modifiable. Transport is also important to raise economic standards and thereby health. This book summarizes an impressive evidence base and shows that transport still poses many negative environmental, climate, social, and health impacts that can and should be reduced. This is not easy and needs strategic and systemic approaches with long-term vision and commitment. New technologies such as electrification and the integration of autonomous vehicles into the market can address some of these concerns. However, many profound changes are needed to make a larger impact, including land use, life style, and behavioral and social changes, some of which have been discussed in this book. Throughout the book the consensus was that we need more multidisciplinary and systemic approaches that address not only one aspect or one exposure but also tackles issues more holistically and avoid (unintended) negative consequences.