To make a valid judgement of the net effect of transport activities on society, both the negative and the positive effects have to be known. This article attempts to find a starting point for a system to determine the positive contribution of transport in general to social well-being and if possible of the separate transport modes. In assessing the benefits of transport an integral approach is needed. Within this approach a number of routes can be taken which are all based on `chain relationships'. Because of some uncertainties, such as the unknown productivity change in the event of an increased or reduced cargo supply for the transport services, these routes do not provide a scientific foundation. Three studies - mainly into seaport activities - show that by linking up with an `Added Value' concept, it can be possible to arrive at a result.
Abstract