The researchers were awarded funding under the OPUS 27 NCN call to carry out a research project entitled "Rola stref czystego transportu w kształtowaniu zachowań transportowych mieszkańców dużych ośrodków miejskich w Polsce" [The role of clean transport zones in shaping the transport behaviour of residents of large urban centres in Poland]. The head of the research is dr hab. Szymon Wiśniewski, Associate Professor at the University of Lodz from the Institute of the Built Environment and Spatial Policy, Faculty of Geographical Sciences, University of Lodz. The research team also includes Dr Marta Borowska-Stefańska and Dr Mariusz Lamprecht (Faculty of Geographical Sciences, University of Lodz). The amount of the awarded funds is PLN 817,254.
The research gap is, among other things, an important factor motivating the research. Analyses conducted so far have focused mainly on reducing pollution, while there is a lack of data on long-term changes in transport behaviour
– underlines Prof. Wiśniewski.
What will analyses results of clean transport zones bring?
As indicated by the scientists, the main objective of the project is to analyse the impact of introducing Clean Transport Zones on the transport behaviour of residents of selected Polish cities, such as Krakow and Warsaw. The project will provide valuable data for the development of a sustainable transport system and support for pro-ecological urban policy. The research is to be based on surveys, data from Intelligent Transport Systems and analysis of public transport.
The analyses can also contribute to improving the functioning of public transport, minimising transport exclusion and promoting sustainable urban development.
Benchmarking with international practices will facilitate the adaptation of proven solutions, supporting the achievement of climate goals at local and global levels. The project also has the potential to strengthen the dialogue between authorities, residents and scientists, raising ecological awareness and social acceptance of pro-ecological activities, which in the long term will translate into an improvement in the quality of life of residents and environmental protection. Selected cities are also covered by international programmes supporting activities for climate neutrality, which underlines their importance as research areas
– says Prof. Wiśniewski.
Other questions the researchers would like to answer are:
1. How does the introduction of low emission zones affect residents' transport behaviour?
Does the introduction of low emission zones lead to a reduction in the number of journeys, changes in the way people plan their journeys and changes in the time spent in central areas of cities? What are the consequences of these changes for the spatial mobility of residents on a daily basis, including on weekdays and weekends?
2. What factors determine the effectiveness of low emission zones in modifying transport behaviour?
How do the spatial, functional and socio-economic characteristics of cities and low emission zones themselves affect changes in the transport behaviour of residents? How can these features strengthen or weaken the effectiveness of introduced regulations?
3. How does the introduction of low emission zones change residents’ transport choices?
To what extent do the new regulations affect residents’ decisions regarding the use of different modes of transport, such as public transport, bicycles, walking or private cars? How do choices differ depending on the travel motivation?
4. What are the spatial and temporal effects of introducing low emission zones on urban mobility?
To what extent do spatial patterns of residents' mobility and temporal differentiation of vehicle and passenger traffic change at different times of the week? What are the consequences for the functioning of urban transport systems?
5. How do low emission zones affect the operation and organisation of public transport?
What changes occur in the use of public transport, its organisation and the number of passengers as a result of the introduction of the zones? Are there any needs for further modifications in the operation of public transport to better adapt to the new conditions?
6. What recommendations can be made based on the project results to support pro-ecological urban policies?
What conclusions can be drawn from the research results regarding urban mobility management? How can these results support local authorities in planning and implementing sustainable and climate-neutral transport policies?