In order to create a successful modal shift towards more environmentally friendly transport, such as public transport, a package of measures is needed, which, preferably, also improves conditions for walking and cycling. In general, successful policy options consist of a combination of spatial planning, modal split policy, technical solutions and campaigns aimed at influencing behaviour and financial instruments. Measures such as vehicle taxation are also effective.
In urban areas, a shift towards cycling and walking can be achieved by making car use unattractive (for example, by introducing traffic restrictions and high parking fees) and cycling safe and quick. In the Netherlands, high parking fees in the city centre of Amsterdam resulted in a decrease in car movements (-14 per cent) and an increase in bicycle movements (+36 per cent). Nowadays, the bicycle has overtaken the car as most frequently used transport vehicle in the city centre of Amsterdam
Regulatory measures
Reduce and control emissions through technical, legal and financial measures. A combination of these measures has actually reduced vehicle exhaust emissions in Western Europe. Technical measures include equipping vehicles with particle filters, developing low or zero-emission vehicles, decreasing sulphur levels in fuel and the development of alternative combustion fuels and engine technology such as electric and hybrid cars. Biofuels are also an option, but their costs and benefits need to be evaluated carefully to rule out potential new health risks and avoid competition with food production. Legal measures include banning the use of leaded fuel (which is still used in some EECCA and SEE countries) and setting emission standards for vehicles. Fuel-efficient driving (eco-driving) should also be considered.
As part of an integrated transport strategy, nine new 20 mph zones were introduced in residential areas and near schools. The number of traffic injuries in these areas dropped by 58 per cent after introduction.
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Give priority to speed reduction and control.
Regulatory measures includevehicle safety, setting and controlling speed limits and controlling maximum alcohol limits to prevent drink driving. The risk of death can be decreased by up to eight times by lowering speed limits. Positive progress on the reduction of injuries has been made across the EU. Better enforcement of speed and alcohol limits have led to significant reductions in fatality rates, despite the strong growth in transport demand. In addition, ‘demerit points’, which are used to add up minor traffic code violations and can lead to revocation of the driving license, has been very effective in, for example, Denmark.....
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