We are the UK Government’s independent adviser on sustainable development. Through advocacy, advice and
appraisal, we help put sustainable development at the heart of Government policy
Publications
Healthy Futures #5: Sustainable Transport and Active Travel
| Date: | 05/02/2007 |
|---|---|
| Classification: | Transport, Health |
| Document type: | SDC Reports & Papers |
| Download: |  Healthy_Futures_5.pdf - 2960 KB |
| Summary: |  Increasing car use is one of the main reasons for the decline in physical activity and associated health problems in the population. Almost one in 20 journeys in the UK is associated with the NHS and 83% of these take place by car or van. Transport is responsible for a third of our greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change. Climate change is beginning to reveal its impacts on our health: through regular extreme weather events, increased risk of flooding, potential impacts on food production, increased spread of communicable disease and potentially the social and economic implications of global recession. As a good corporate citizen, the NHS can lead by example by encouraging staff and visitors to get out of cars and on to bikes and public transport. By supporting more active lifestyles and reducing air pollution, the NHS can promote a healthier environment, workforce and population and make a big contribution in the battle to reduce health inequalities. This publication is the fifth in a series that explores the NHS contribution to sustainable development. It looks at how and why the NHS should promote sustainable transport options that benefit our health and environment. |
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