Citation

O'Brien C. World Transp. Policy Pract. 2008; 14(1): 15-26.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2008, Eco-Logica)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article brings an interdisciplinary perspective and a focus on children's needs and desires to the discuss of sustainable happiness and sustainable development, with a goal of finding strategies for sustainable transportation. O'Brien (2005) defined sustainable happiness as the pursuit of happiness that does not exploit other people, the environment or future generations. This concept is being used to generate awareness with respect to how individuals, communities and nations pursue happiness and the local and global consequences. The author discusses sustainable happiness with respect to the school trip, transportation and land use planning. The article includes numerous quotes and data from studies that surveyed students and parents on their ideas and opinions about the journey to school. The author contends that focusing on happiness as a component of transportation planning will result in goals achieved more quickly and more easily, with overall positive results for general wellness. Education policies that are made in isolation from public health considerations are not consistent with principles of sustainability. Sustainable transportation research, policy, and practice could be augmented through happiness literature, particularly with regard to fostering sustainable behavior. (TRID Abstract)