The absence of a specific economic value for environmental damage is discussed in relation to public policy for environmental protection. Categories of environmental damage are given. Economic tools to cope with environmental damage include direct public management (for example of transport terminals), regulations and pricing. Pricing has different effects on redistribution and social equity than regulations. Secondary effects of environmental protection need to be avoided. The controversy concerning the emissions from diesel motors is discussed. General transport policy in Europe and the USA has been to favour public transport, cycling, walking and rail freight but this has not produced the anticipated improvements in modal split. Transport infrastructure design to prevent severance or reduce noise is discussed. Vehicle designs which produce fewer emissions or use less fuel are discussed. It is suggested that the greatest threat posed by expanding transportation systems may be climatic change.
Abstract