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An Integrated Assessment Method for Sustainable Transport System Planning in a Middle Sized German City

Author

Listed:
  • Julia Schmale

    (Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies Potsdam, Berliner Straße 130, 14467 Potsdam, Germany
    Paul Scherrer Institute, 5232 Villigen, Switzerland)

  • Erika Von Schneidemesser

    (Institute for Advanced Sustainability Studies Potsdam, Berliner Straße 130, 14467 Potsdam, Germany
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

  • Axel Dörrie

    (Landeshauptstadt Potsdam, Hegelallee 6-10, 14461 Potsdam, Germany
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

Abstract

Despite climate change mitigation and sustainability agendas, road transport systems in Germany and the resulting environmental burden are growing. Road transport is a significant source of emissions in urban areas and the infrastructure has a significant impact on the urban form. Nevertheless, mobility is a fundamental requirement for the satisfaction of the human desire to socially and economically engage in society. Considering these realities and the desire for sustainable development in a growing city (Potsdam, Germany), an integrated assessment methodology was co-developed among scientists and practitioners to prioritize a suite of transport-related measures. The methodology reflects the city’s qualitative and quantitative goals to improve public transport and promote sustainability, capturing synergies in categories that include environmental considerations as well as road safety, eco-mobility, and quality of life. This approach applies a multi-criteria analysis (MCA) to derive a practically relevant solution for the local traffic and mobility problems that fosters ownership and accountability of all involved. This paper reflects on the process of developing the MCA, and the different aspects that were found important and required consideration during the process. Recommendations on specific traffic-related measures and the assessment of their effectiveness are not given. The aim is that such process information could foster greater collaboration within city departments and similar transdisciplinary efforts.

Suggested Citation

  • Julia Schmale & Erika Von Schneidemesser & Axel Dörrie, 2015. "An Integrated Assessment Method for Sustainable Transport System Planning in a Middle Sized German City," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 7(2), pages 1-26, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:7:y:2015:i:2:p:1329-1354:d:45157
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