Which Car-Cutting Strategies Really Work — And Which Ones Will We Accept? (Dr. Kimberly Nicholas)
Sep 5, 2023
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Dr. Kimberly Nicholas, researcher and best-selling author, discusses effective car-cutting strategies in European cities and their potential for America. Topics include congestion-bracing, traffic limitations, challenges in achieving climate goals, transition management, successful strategies like congestion charges and free transit, and the importance of experimentation and collaboration.
Combining incentives and disincentives, such as congestion charges and limited traffic zones, can be effective in reducing vehicle miles traveled.
Transition management theory highlights the need to assess VMT reduction strategies based on effectiveness, novelty, suitability, and feasibility.
Deep dives
Identifying Strategies to Reduce Vehicle Miles Traveled in Cities
Dr. Kimberly Nicholas conducted a study in Loon, Sweden to identify effective strategies for reducing vehicle miles traveled (VMT) in cities. The study aimed to address the challenge of reducing car dependency to achieve climate neutrality goals. The research identified 12 VMT slashing strategies that could be implemented globally, highlighting the need to determine their effectiveness and feasibility. The study also discussed the concept of lock-ins and path dependencies, which hinder communities from adopting VMT reduction strategies. Transition management, a theory used in the study, emphasizes the importance of assessing solutions based on effectiveness and three essential criteria: novelty, suitability, and feasibility.
Balancing Carrots and Sticks in VMT Reduction Strategies
While some VMT reduction strategies focus on making alternative modes of transportation more attractive, Dr. Nicholas emphasized the need to combine carrots and sticks for effective results. The study found that measures combining incentives and disincentives were the most successful. Key examples include congestion charges, parking and traffic control, and limited traffic zones. Importantly, the revenue or space saved from these measures should be reinvested in public and active transport to showcase the benefits of reduced car usage, such as vibrant streets and increased community interaction.
Lessons for US Communities and Future Research
Although the study focused on European examples, it offers valuable insights for American communities. Dr. Nicholas encourages conducting similar studies in the US context to identify effective VMT reduction strategies. She also highlights the importance of sharing research and experimentation results to learn from successes and failures. Consistent reporting of outcomes in terms of VMT across various transportation modes is crucial for evaluating the impact of strategies. Additionally, addressing safety concerns and collaborating with local universities and researchers can contribute to successful VMT reduction initiatives in the US.
Climate-conscious cities around the world are scrambling for ideas to cut how many miles their residents drive. But which strategies work the best — and which ones will residents actually accept? Today on The Brake, Kea Wilson sits down with researcher and best-selling author Dr. Kimberly Nicholas to talk about a recent study of the most effective ideas European cities have tried to transition away from car dependency — and what it might take to bring them to America. Listen in, and check out her Substack We Can Fix It here.
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