Throughout this semester, we have discussed several issues associated with the current transportation system. We have also discussed potential solutions that can enhance the sustainability of the existing system. One particular solution that could alleviate several transportation issues involves using educational campaigns. These campaigns, which involve large-scale public awareness movements, intend to alter individual’s behavioral patterns. Through television, radio, social media, and other such mass communication methods, educational campaigns provide critical information regarding transportation issues to the public. By communicating the issues and the methods with which individuals can help to resolve the problem, educational campaigns are a strong tool for promoting sustainable transportation.
Educational campaigns have been shown to have strong influences on the behavioral patterns of the public in the past. One example of the influence of education occurred in the United States in the 1970’s. In 1973, in an effort to respond to the energy crisis associated with the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries oil embargo, the US created several large-scale educational programs. These programs promoted the use of energy efficient transportation methods such as carpooling and public transportation use. As a result of these campaigns, carpooling increased significantly. Over the ensuing decades, as the scale of the educational programs diminished, carpooling levels decreased as well. This example displays the strong correlation between educational programs and public responsiveness. By utilizing educational programs, transportation engineers can promote public behavioral patterns that are consistent with sustainable transportation ideals.
Reference:
Black, William R. Sustainable Transportation.
Transportation & Tomorrow 