Collection and use of environmental data for transport management: a view from local authorities

Research undertaken by the Transportation Research Group at the University of Southampton is discussed, which studies the views, needs and requirements of local authorities as users of sensor grids for environmental monitoring. The study was undertaken through a combination of literature review and workshop activity. Representatives from local authorities were invited to participate in a workshop discussion. It was agreed that more detailed and comprehensive environmental data will be useful for transport planning, network management and traveller information provision. The detailed data can be used to provide a sound understanding of local environmental situations and to identify specific problem areas and times. For local authorities, monitoring noise level and air pollutants which have direct impact on human health such as PM₁₀, PM_2.5 and NOx is more important than monitoring green house emission. Historic data on air pollution will be essential for local transport plans focusing on reduction of road-transport-related pollution. Real time environmental data will be needed to be integrated with existing traffic control and traveller information systems. Information on areas surrounding schools and hospitals are most desirable. However, there was a concern regarding negative information disseminated to the public.