Energy and transport planning

Debbie Hopkins and Christian Brand

Abstract

Movement requires some form of energy. Contemporary systems of transport have become dependent on fossil fuels, with road transport reliant mainly on petrol/gasoline and diesel-powered internal combustion engines. The primary focus on energy supply has neglected the important role of energy demand in efforts to reduce transport-related emissions, which contribute to both global climate change and localized air pollution. Transport planning plays an important role in determining potential transport futures. This chapter points to the different ways that the process of planning and the decisions made by planners (in relation to other actors) can reinforce the dominance of private-car based environments, or contribute to the transition toward a more diverse system of mobility. In short, alternative transport futures—built on alternative energy systems—are possible, but implementation will be challenged by a range of vested interests and status quo thinking which planners—and others—must seek to overcome.

Banner photo credit: Alireza Attari on Unsplash