Toward an Integrated Model for Soft-Mobility

David Chapman and Agneta Larsson
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David Chapman: Architecture Group, Luleå University of Technology, 97187 Luleå, Sweden
Agneta Larsson: Department of Health Sciences, Luleå University of Technology, 97187 Luleå, Sweden

IJERPH, 2019, vol. 16, issue 19, 1-15

Abstract: A key urban design challenge is to create built environments that encourage outdoor activity all year round. This study explores a new model for soft-mobility that places the interaction between the urban form, the seasonal climate and climate change, and the individual at the center of people’s soft-mobility choices, or in more general, their modal choice. The research methods used were comparative studies of documents, surveys, mental mapping, and photo elicitation. These studies were undertaken to research people’s outdoor activity in the built environment during the winter season of a cold climate settlement. The results were analyzed against the three-dimensions of the model. In the discussion it is argued that in places with significant climate variation, the interaction between the urban form, the season, and the individual together influence soft-mobility choices. In turn, these interactions influence people’s level of outdoor activity and the individual health benefits such activity can afford. In conclusion, it is highlighted that all three dimensions of the model are in a constant state of change and evolution, especially in relation to planning and development processes and climate change.

Keywords: urban design; outdoor activity; health outcomes; climate change (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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