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Abstract:

"Summary:

Transport is an essential sector in a modern economy, but the rapid movement of vehicles and the energy required to drive them creates health hazards that need to be managed for minimum health impacts. Descriptive statistical material on transport activities in New Zealand has been identified and relatively comprehensive statistics on traffic crash injuries exists. However, the review identifies clear gaps and biases in the data available. 

Apart from the direct safety hazards involved with transport, indirect hazards such as air pollution, noise, and other environmental hazards like storm-water contamination, are created. In addition, private motor vehicle travel reduces opportunities for daily physical activity, and major roads can reduce community coherence and lead to social isolation. 

All these factors have potential health consequences, but research in New Zealand to quantify the health risks is limited. However, this report identifies issues that would merit further research."