The UK Foresight Panels use various technological forecasting and other techniques to advise the Government and industry on the future, and especially on how technology could be applied to social and economic benefit. One of the three key projects identified by the Foresight Transport Panel concerns Clear Zones. A Clear Zone is an urban area which does not suffer from air pollution or traffic chaos; it is not a massive pedestrian area which is empty, lacking vitality, and inaccessible to less mobile people. The concept of Clear Zones, as a technology for liveable cities, combines the thinking of expert and sophisticated analysts of urban futures with an evaluation of what part technology could play in the city of the future. People should live, work, and shop in land use and communication patterns that minimise travel, but this implies neither a return to very small cities nor a narrow choice of goods and activities. The Clear Zones Steering Group considered a logo and communication strategy for its project, presented a mission statement and objectives, outlined an action plan, and identified relevant transport technologies. It identified projects in six British cities that should receive Clear Zones Awards. It is now working with a few cities to develop new urban traffic and air pollution control systems.
Abstract