Presentation project Shapes
Objectives
The main objective is to analyze the risks and benefits of a modal shift from passenger cars to cycling. In this way SHAPES will enable policy makers to make clear and science-based choices related to commuter cycling and transport modal shift in cities. Therefore SHAPES has defined a number of specific objectives:
- To evaluate the exposure to air pollution for cyclists compared to car users
- To evaluate the physical condition of cyclists compared to car users
- To implement an on-line injury registration system for minor injuries in commuter cyclists
- To develop a spatial analysis for accident risks
- To integrate these risks into a common framework, to evaluate costs and benefits
- To develop a spatial analysis of trajectory choice and methodology for infrastructure development in the three Belgian regions
- To propose policy options that contribute to safer and healthier cycling and to lower emissions and social security costs in the long term
Expected results and/or Products
SHAPES will build an integrated framework to evaluate the costs and benefits of commuter cycling. The outcome of the project will be a distinct set of policy options that can be used to promote a modal shift to cycling and substantially improve public health in a cost-efficient manner while taking in account the physical capabilities of different groups and spatial constraints in different regions.
- for individuals considering to give up sedentary transport in favor of cycling by providing clear insights in the individual health benefits such as a decreased risk for cardiovascular disease, hypertension, obesity, a better overall physical condition and risks encountered.
- for policy makers promoting cycling to prevent chronic diseases in an aging population, to reduce air pollution by cars and to reduce CO2 emissions by highlighting non-marginal changes (e.g. infrastructure)
