Transport, Environment and Society (Introducing Social Policy)

"I have no hesitation in suggesting that it should be required reading for students of transport studies and social policy if for no other reason than because it provides an excellent overview of a particular perspective on transport and the consequences of automobility for particular groups."
Justin Spinney, University of East London, UK

"It is an excellent and comprehensive means of providing an introduction to those not familiar with social issues associated with contemporary transport....this reviewer recommends this book as an essential reading for all involved in the social policy field, not just students."
Graham Currie, Monash University, Australia

This topical book examines the consequences of our car-based transport system for social policy. Readers are introduced to the complexity of the relationship between transport and society together with the debates about the social inequalities produced by the transport system and the connection between social inequality, social exclusion and transport disadvantage. The social inequalities which result from the ways we travel are related to key areas of social policy.

The book also traces the move from public to private transport during the last half century in the UK. Adopting a lifecourse approach Transport, Environment and Society demonstrates the impact of car dependence on children, adults, disabled people and older people, demonstrating the ways in which transport and mobility policy have changed perceptions of freedom, risk and safety.

Throughout the book, the environmental impact of transport is kept to the fore. Reviewing the evidence on the social impact of transport the book discusses the ways in which a sustainable transport policy could emerge and argues that questions of mobility and transport should be integral to social policies which are concerned with environmental and social justice.

The book assumes no previous knowledge of transport or transport policy and outlines the roles and functions of the relevant departments and agencies. Written primarily for social science students, Transport, Environment and Society is also key reading for environmental studies and transport studies students who need to understand the impact of transport on society.