The Barcelona Institute for Global Health (ISGlobal) has taken part in a study that analysed the potential risks and benefits of autonomous vehicles for public health.
The conclusions of the study, published in the Annual Review of Public Health, indicate that this new type of mobility could benefit public health if the cars are electric and the model used is based on ride-sharing.
David Rojas, first author of the paper and a researcher at ISGlobal and Colorado State University, said: “At the international level, we are still seeing very little research or planning by the authorities in anticipation of the advent of these new transport technologies, despite the fact that autonomous vehicles have the potential to significantly modify our cities and the way we travel.
“And this innovative autonomous technology will also have an impact on public health.”
The authors of the study synthesised data from published research to identify the possible direct and indirect health impacts of autonomous vehicles on the population.
The study also includes a series of recommendations aimed at policy makers, health professionals and researchers in the field.
“The advent of autonomous vehicles may result in either health benefits or risks depending on a number of factors, such as how the technology is implemented, what fuel and engines are used, how self-driving cars are used and how they are integrated with other modes of transport,” said Rojas.
One of the studies discussed in this paper estimated that if 90% of the cars in the USA were to become fully autonomous, an estimated 25,000 lives could be saved every year, with economic savings estimated at over US$200bn (£154m) a year.
As well as providing benefits in terms of road safety, the study suggests that autonomous vehicles could also offer major opportunities for public health if the vehicles are electric and are used in a ride-sharing format and integrated into a model that also prioritises public transport, cycling and walking.
However, the study also stated that self-driving vehicles could have a negative impact on public health if the future model is based on fossil fuel engines and individual ownership, leading to an increase in motorised traffic, greater sedentarism and worse air quality.
Mark J. Nieuwenhuijsen, researcher and director of ISGlobal’s Urban Planning, Environment and Health Initiative, said: “We need to start planning the implementation of autonomous technology as soon as possible so as to minimise the risks and maximise the health benefits.
“This technology should be used to support public and active transport, prioritising the most disadvantaged communities and contributing to a shift in urban planning and transport models that will lead to a healthier urban environment.”
Want to learn more about the role of autonomous vehicles in the future of urban transportation? CiTTi Exhibition takes place on the 3rd and 4th of June at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena. Register your interest to attend at www.cittiexhibition.co.uk
