Citation

Washino S. IATSS Res. 2008; 32(1): 54-59.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, International Association of Traffic and Safety Sciences, Publisher Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This paper describes some of the problems with urban life in Japan, and presents solutions relating to the concept of a compact city that will impact the environment, safety, and central city revitalization. The background given describes Japan as a place where problems of climate change, a low birth rate leading to a decline of city centers, and multitude of traffic accidents plague society. The author’s solution to these problems involves electric vehicles (EV), intelligent speed adaptation (ISA), and the compact city. While electric vehicles have many environmentally friendly aspects, there are a multitude of weaknesses that need to be addressed. If properly adapted, they could be used as commuters within a compact city. In order to reduce traffic accident ISA could be used within a compact city. A compact city is described as method of city planning that could reduce carbon dioxide output, reduce traffic accidents, as well as increase access to services for the elderly.