Assessing the Value of Non-Motorized Transport Infrastructure
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Non-motorized transport (NMT) has gained significant momentum in recent years as a sustainable mode of transportation. With increasing concerns about environmental degradation and traffic congestion, governments and urban planners are increasingly investing in NMT infrastructure. But how do we assess the value of these investments? In this article, we will explore the various factors that contribute to the value of non-motorized transport infrastructure and how we can measure them.
The Rise of Non-Motorized Transport
NMT modes, such as cycling and walking, have been an integral part of human mobility for centuries. However, with the rise of automobiles in the 20th century, these modes were marginalized and neglected. But as cities became increasingly congested and polluted, there has been a resurgence in the use of NMT. According to the World Health Organization, more than 1.2 million lives could be saved each year if people swapped short car trips with walking or cycling.
This increase in demand for NMT has led to an increase in investments in infrastructure. In 2015, a study by the European Cyclists’ Federation showed that every euro invested in cycling infrastructure yielded at least €5.3 in economic benefits. But how do we determine the value of NMT infrastructure?
Factors that Contribute to the Value of NMT Infrastructure
1. Cost Savings
One of the most significant contributions of NMT infrastructure is cost savings. By promoting cycling and walking, cities can reduce the demand for expensive car infrastructure, such as roads and parking, as well as reduce the need for car ownership. NMT infrastructure also has a lower maintenance cost compared to motorized transport infrastructure, which means cities can save money in the long run.
2. Health Benefits
As mentioned earlier, NMT infrastructure has significant health benefits, both at the individual and societal level. Regular physical activity through cycling or walking can reduce the risk of various health issues, such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. This, in turn, can lead to a decrease in healthcare costs and an increase in productivity.
3. Environmental Impact
Another important factor to consider when assessing the value of NMT infrastructure is its impact on the environment. NMT modes produce zero emissions, making them an environmentally friendly transportation option. By promoting sustainable modes of transport, cities can reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to mitigating the effects of climate change.
4. Social Benefits
NMT infrastructure also has various social benefits. By providing safe and accessible infrastructure, cities can promote social inclusion and equity. NMT also makes cities more livable by reducing noise and air pollution, as well as creating more pleasant and attractive urban spaces.
Measuring the Value of NMT Infrastructure
Evaluating the value of NMT infrastructure can be challenging, as it involves various economic, social, and environmental factors. However, some methods can help us measure the value of these investments:
1. Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA)
CBA is a common method used to evaluate the worth of infrastructure investments. It compares the total costs of a project with its expected benefits over a specific period. While this method may not capture all the benefits of NMT infrastructure, it provides a good starting point for decision-making.
2. Multi-Criteria Analysis (MCA)
MCA is a more comprehensive approach that considers various environmental, social, and economic factors. It assesses the value of infrastructure investments by assigning weights to each criterion and evaluating the impact of the project on each factor. This method can help policymakers consider the trade-offs between different objectives and make more informed decisions.
3. Cost-Effectiveness Analysis (CEA)
CEA is similar to CBA but focuses on the most cost-effective options. It compares different infrastructure development scenarios and chooses the one that provides the most significant benefits at the lowest cost. This method may be suitable for NMT infrastructure, as it may not always yield high monetary benefits but can provide significant overall value.
In Conclusion
As cities continue to face challenges of congestion, pollution, and unsustainable transportation systems, the value of NMT infrastructure becomes increasingly apparent. By considering factors such as cost savings, health benefits, environmental impact, and social benefits, we can measure the value of these investments and make informed decisions. As we move towards more sustainable and livable cities, NMT infrastructure will undoubtedly play a significant role.
