Dr Paul Byrne - Active Travel
Summary
In this on-demand teaching session, Dr. Paul Byrne, a Consultant Rheumatologist from Colchester Hospital, explores the concept of Active Travel. He explains how the use of public space for different modes of transport has historical and political roots, and how it intersects with environmental sustainability and public health. He outlines the evolution of transport modes through history, from the use of bicycles to the adoption of private cars, and the financial impacts of these choices.
Dr. Byrne further delves into the resurgence of cycling and walking for the betterment of environmental health and personal well-being, evidenced by the UK's Walking and Cycling Action Plan of 2004 and other cycling-centric initiatives in England. He also highlights the significance of active travel in combating health challenges linked to lack of fitness and obesity, as illustrated by data from the Scottish Longitudinal Study.
In this session, attendees will gain insights into the various benefits of active modes of travel— enhanced fitness, better air quality, reduced carbon emissions and improved overall health. You will also understand how policy changes can pave the way for better alternatives to car use, having a positive impact on the lives of both adults and children. Don't miss the chance to learn about this crucial aspect of public health and environmental care
Learning objectives
- Understand the history and evolution of active travel from the 18th century onwards and its relation to the use of public space
- Analyze the impact of active travel policies on public health, the environment, and community wellness with specific reference to the Walking and Cycling Action Plan, Cycling Demonstration Towns project, and the 2017 Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy.
- Reflect on the current challenges facing active travel implementation, including potential barriers and opposing interests.
- Evaluate the correlations between active travel, health, and illness as evidenced by the Scottish Longitudinal Study.
- Identify strategies for advocating for and increasing active travel in order to improve public health, reduce CO2 emissions, and build a better future for children.
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Active Travel Dr Paul Byrne Consultant Rheumatologist Colchester Hospital.Land Enclosure Acts 1773 onwards In 1786 there were still 250,000 independent landowners, but in the course of only thirty years their number was reduced to 32,000.Use of public space is a political decision.Mass protest against vested interest can be successful. Cycling Boom 1880’s - 1950’s Safety Bicycle to Mass ownership of the Private Car.1950’s -onwards Profits have been enormous1970s–1990s: Environmental and Cycling Revival2000 to now* The 2004 Walking and Cycling Action PlanCycling Demonstration Towns project (2005–2011)Cycling England 2005–2011 60M/23B x 100% = 1/4 of one percent !!!2017 Cycling and Walking Investment StrategyChris Boardman https://x.com/transportgovuk/status/1484807334023028736?s=46Reverse Gear Wrong on LTN Wrong on 20 mph Wrong on delaying the ban on new petrol and diesel Wrong on bus lanes Wrong to frame it as a war on motorists.2025 NO2 down 27% Particulates down 31% Carbon reduction Air Quality improved 99% of London monitoring stationsOn a Personal Note…In 27 years of cycle commuting to and from the hospital, how far do you think I’ve cycled? 5000 miles 10,000 miles 20,000 miles 40,000 miles 60,000 milesThe Scottish Longitudinal Study is based on census data, from which we selected 82 297 individuals aged 16–74 years. Individuals were followed-up between 2001 and 2018 through linkage to hospitalisation, death and prescription records.Health demand and health costs continue to skyrocket. Demand is driven by illness. Illness is much more common in the unfit elderly. And much more common in people who are overweight. We have to reduce demand. Emphasis needs to be on improving fitness. We can’t afford not to.Active Travel is the most time efficient way to exercise .Childrenhttps://x.com/adamtranter/status/1 845760680575602903?s=46 With video from ETA servicesParisSummary Use of public space is a political choice. Space needs to be taken from cars to alternatives. This improves public health, reduces danger, improves the environment, reduces CO2, reduces child death, Change is resistant by vested interest. It’s difficult to argue against doing it for our children. By doing so we build a better future.Thank you