Shaping healthier cities: The role of equitable transport policies - Insights from Professor Simon Kingham

By James Beck

In a recent conversation, Professor Simon Kingham, a leading urban geographer from the University of Canterbury, shared his extensive knowledge on wellbeing, transport and the common good. With six years of experience as the Chief Science Advisor at the Ministry of Transport, Kingham's expertise offers valuable insights into creating more sustainable and equitable communities.

Evidence-Based Policy for Meaningful Change

Kingham emphasises the importance of evidence-based policy in shaping our urban environments. He strongly believes that transport policies must be based upon robust research, aiming for outcomes that not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions but also promote health, wellbeing and equity. “Policy must be multifaceted, targeting multiple outcomes beyond just one,” he explains. By focusing on diverse goals, policies can create more comprehensive benefits for society.

To delve deeper into the research, a great place to start is this article by Simon.

Transforming Human Geography

Kingham's work in human geography delves into the intricate relationships between people, places and behaviours. For instance, he highlights how the built environment significantly influences our transportation choices and, consequently, the environment. "People's travel choices are shaped by their surroundings," he notes. “People drive because they don’t have a choice.” We need to change the environment to change their travel choices. "Making alternatives like walking, cycling, and public transport attractive and easy can reduce car dependency and its associated negative impacts."

Lessons from Behavioural Shifts

Drawing parallels to the cultural shift around drink driving, Kingham discusses how societal norms can change significantly over time. If we want to achieve widespread change, then making safe and sustainable travel behaviours culturally acceptable is crucial. Kingham notes the importance of infrastructure in this shift, “Lowering speed limits and improving cycling infrastructure can normalise healthier and more environmentally friendly travel options.”

Equity and Environmental Justice

Kingham passionately addresses the issue of equity in transport. Changes such as lowering speed limits and improving public transport disproportionately benefit marginalised communities, including children, the elderly and low-income groups. Kingham explains how "reducing speed limits not only enhances safety but also promotes social equity by making streets safer and more accessible for everyone."

Professor Simon Kingham (Source: Joseph Johnson | STUFF)

The Role of the Church

Kingham urges the church to engage actively in these debates. The church has been historically strong in addressing social issues like poverty and slavery, and now can extend its influence to environmental matters and transport equity.

"The church has a unique voice in advocating for the common good," he asserts. "Supporting policies that reduce speed limits and promote sustainable transport aligns with the biblical call to care for creation and pursue justice."

Professor Simon Kingham's insights underscore the interconnectedness of urban planning, environmental sustainability and social equity. By advocating for evidence-based policies and fostering cultural shifts, we can create healthier, more equitable communities. The church's involvement in these efforts can amplify positive change, honouring our commitment to caring for creation and the common good.

Click here if you would like to find out more about the government's proposed changes to speed limit reductions and to make a submission. Submissions close on 11 July 2024.