This paper discusses the concept of social exclusion as it relates to transport, how it is currently incorporated in Canadian transport planning, and the research needed to better address social exclusion. Social exclusion refers to constraints that prevent people from participating adequately in society, including education, employment, public services and activities. Inadequate transport sometimes contributes to social exclusion, particularly for people who live in an automobile dependent community and are physically disabled, low income or unable to own and drive a personal automobile. About 20% of Canadian households do not own an automobile, about 10% are low-income, and about 10% of the population has a disability that constrains mobility. Probably a third or more of households have at least one member who is transport disadvantaged. The term social exclusion is not widely used in Canada, but most transport officials are concerned with providing basic mobility to disadvantaged groups. Efforts to address transport-related social exclusion are mostly implemented at the local level. A wide range of transport and land use policies and programs can help improve social inclusion, many of which are often overlooked as possible solutions to this problem. Further research is needed to better evaluate the problem and potential solutions. (Author/publisher)
Samenvatting