In July 2011, Partnership for Prevention released a report which examines the effects of transportation policies on public health in three key areas—environment and environmental public health, community design and active transportation, and motor vehicle-related injuries and fatalities.

The general public and the government have a strong interest in improving health, controlling health care costs, and reducing energy use and traffic congestion. This report highlights existing scientific evidence on the health effects of nearly 40 transportation policies and policy concepts that can further our multiple health and transportation goals.
Chapter 1 presents policies that would reduce the transportation system’s impacts on the environment and environmental public health, chiefly through reducing the ill effects of transportation-related emissions. This can be done through two approaches: reducing the amount of emissions that are generated, and reducing exposure to these emissions when they do occur.
Chapter 2 explores policies that can enhance community design in order to promote safe and active transportation. These policies can lead to changes in the shape and nature of our communities, so that active transportation can become a more attractive and viable option.