In order to support better planning and policy decisions, our study analyses the interlinkages of urbanisation and decreased physical activity in different urban fabrics, including the quantity, quality, and accessibility of urban green. The goal of our research is to deepen the understanding of lifestyles and functions related to physical activity as well as the elements of connectivity to services, green space and sport venues. This knowledge helps us to understand better what enables the increase of physical activity in urban areas.
The schema of three urban fabrics is based on the idea that the urban fabric of a city is a combination of walking, transit and car fabrics. In urban areas travel choices are influenced by a combination of personal attitudes towards transportation modes as well as one’s selected residential location. A special focus is paid to car-free households and multi-modality, as they indicate higher levels of physical activity and accessibility to walking, cycling and public transport networks as well as to urban green, as an element of public open space. By linking transportation behaviour related data with the approach of three urban fabrics, we create an integrated spatial representation of travel behaviour and service accessibility with regard to increased physical activity to better support planning and policy decisions.
Further information:
Riikka Paloniemi, PI, Adjunct professor, Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE)