Mobility and health

 Transport-related health risks cause the deaths of millions of people annually. For example, WHO estimates that road traffic injuries kill 1.3 million people every year and injure millions more, mostly in low- and middle-income countries. Some 3.2 million deaths annually are due to physical inactivity. However, mobility links that connect people to essential services (food/ retail, jobs, health services, education facilities, public services) are critical to enable people to participate in society, particularly those who have mobility difficulties (older people and people with disabilities) or parents with young children. 

COVID-19, mobility, and health: Fear of transmission of COVID-19 and physical distancing measures implemented to reduce transmission have resulted in major changes to mobility patterns around the world, including significant disruptions and reductions in public transport use. These changes have hit more disadvantaged communities hardest – those more reliant on public transport and less able to work from home. However, the pandemic has also led to positive changes to mobility, with increased investment in modes of transport that favour physical activity, such as cycle lanes. 

Action: Reduced traffic congestion and improved public transport networks are key to lowering air pollution and usually require cooperation with the transport sector and city planners. 

Similarly, designing transport systems that are less reliant on motor vehicles, and aimed at enhancing public transport systems (taking account of non-motorized users through infrastructure for bicycles and pedestrians) – will enhance equity. As well as improving access to basic services for those who cannot afford a car, these transport systems are more sustainable, improve health and social cohesion, while p