I’m hoping to resume focus on green transport and realize that a specialist website may serve this purpose somewhat better. Therefore please see here for a new site currently under construction devoted entirely to transport:
https://wordpress.com/view/transportability.wordpress.com
I no longer promote the use of ewheels given that manufacturers are now making them with top speeds of over 50mph which is obviously completely unsafe. So focus is likely to be on scooters and urban commuter systems.
This is an opinion piece providing ideas on how we can resolve the Ukraine conflict and build a lasting world peace for the future. Reading time just over 10 minutes. Section 1, including sub-sections, shares ideas for all of us. Section 2 is primarily for politicians and policy makers, but also contains ideas and philosophies which I regard as beneficial for all. For a quicker read you can simply read the parts most relevant to you or for ideas on systems to help ensure overall peace from now on, go straight to the ‘Maintaining a lasting world peace’ section.’
Disclaimer
The author is not an expert regarding the political issues discussed and has no political agenda or allegiances. The author does not wish to involve himself in controversial political situations from now on and wishes to resume focus on green transport and education. This text is not about saying who is right or wrong. These are just ideas shared in the sincere hope that others with more knowledge and experience can build upon them to help create, in any small way, a more peaceful existence for all of us.
This is written with goodwill and kindness as a starting point but apologies if anything is wrong or unhelpful, please just take what is useful.
Section 1: Ideas for all of us
See the bigger picture, read widely & be aware of echo chambers
The Russian media is often regarded as state controlled and highly biased but I believe we all need to rise beyond our little echo chambers and propaganda on both sides to free ourselves from dangerously partisan ways of thinking. The idea of ‘us and them’ is divisive and even more dangerous if it’s ‘we’re good’ and ‘they’re bad’. When large groups of people are fed vastly differing narratives thus colouring their perceptions it limits chances of overlap in views where common ground of agreement can be found. This is one of the dangers of propaganda. Any balanced views may then be regarded as dissent within that group so the extreme narrative becomes self-perpetuating given that people wish to conform within their group.
There is a saying in Chinese that listening to both sides leads to brightness (of understanding), but prejudice leads to darkness (兼听则明，偏信则暗). It’s especially important nowadays to read widely across different media sources from different countries and maybe even in different languages. I believe that raising awareness of echo-chambers, propaganda and the need to read widely needs to be part of our school education everywhere. Most teacher’s workloads needs to be made far more manageable, but this should still be included within measures to prevent radicalisation or in media studies and sociology.
Be aware of ‘controversy focus’ in the media
We should treasure and protect a free and open press this is vital in limiting the disparity in the narratives fed to different groups. But with freedom there comes responsibility and a need for reporters and news providers to be aware of cause and effect. Media coverage can cause more harm than good if there is excessive controversy focus – ‘stirring the spoon’ reporting negative things that one person or group has said about another. We seem to have become so obsessed with judgements that when a president shoots his mouth off and makes a critical comment this receives more coverage than the actual events they relate to. They know that controversy sells and so ‘sensationalist gossip’ has become so common we take it as the norm. This is especially the case in America where the political climate has become so divisive that it’s attracted so-called ‘tough-guy’ politicians who then give the media even more controversy to feed off. We need to de-escalate and tune down the rhetoric, less bar room banter from leaders. The more extreme the one side becomes the more extreme the other becomes, through our speech we can add to the snowball or through our patience, understanding and kindness we can melt it. Peace is the result of wisdom. Sensitive careful wording from a president or leader is even more important in times such as these and if they lack the wisdom to see this then at least the media need to focus less on the crass comments and focus more on the actual situation.
Sloppy wording in the press can also create false links in impressionable minds – for example to say that a given country or government ‘feels..’ is wrong, feelings belong to individuals. Be careful of the words you choose, each is a stone thrown into the lake of human consciousness and creates ripples. We also need more compassion shown for the other side – to describe this as a battle of ‘light against dark’ is unhelpful, that’s a false and dangerous analogy. The individuals in the Russian army are also valuable unique people with every right to happiness and wellbeing. Like many, I believe they should not be in Ukraine at all, but as individuals many of them are also victims of this situation. Also please do not describe Zelensky as ‘Ukraine’s Churchill’, this by extension refers to Nazi Germany, and is not at all conducive to the de-escalation we need to see.
Recognise the value of the UN & multi-lateral cooperation
As with the Iraq war, this was done without a UN (United Nations) Security Council resolution. This is our wake up call to show us that it’s unsafe to have too much power concentrated in the hands of one individual. It’s also shown us that despite the farcical antics of many elections and what we call democracy, it still has value. Most of all though, it shows the immense value and security afforded by peaceful multi-lateral organisations especially the UN and the EU (European Union). Even though the UN could not stop this conflict directly they are still the only nearly all-inclusive arena for dialogue with the collective power to offer help on a large scale. I vehemently disagree with any notion that their inability to stop this conflict indicates a lack of real value. The fact that UN security council members can veto proposals means that they can stop resolutions approving military action against themselves. This prevents UN approved military engagement between security council members which is of utmost importance and provides enormous incentive for continued membership. Also the UN is a unique platform for many (nearly all) voices to be heard to add new sounds into echo chambers and de-radicalise. The vote by the UN general assembly condemning the invasion sent a clear message that is far more powerful than any message from the leaders of any one member state. This cannot be dismissed as ‘bias’, as ‘rhetoric’ or ‘western propaganda’ – this was a united message with actual numbers to show the consensus.
Recognise the true heroes
Sometimes the worst can bring out the best in people, and we’re seeing that every day, in the bravery of Russian anti-war protesters, Greenpeace volunteers blocking passage of oil tankers knowing that our addiction to fossil fuels is fuelling this conflict. Also in the kindness of so many millions of people who are contributing their money, time, energy, homes and much more to help. This restores hope and it this kindness and love which helps us weather such storms and sometimes collectively come out the stronger for it.
Section 2: Ideas for policymakers
Focus on restoring peace through diplomacy & reason – not weapons (for politicians)
There’s no glory in war. This war needs to stop as soon as possible through diplomacy and negotiation. We need a peace agreement. Personally I agree with Germany’s former policy of not sending weapons to the side we hope will win, such actions keep arms dealers in business, add to tensions, cost money and set a precedent for others supporting the other side to do the same. Arming the underdog can also escalate and prolong a conflict causing more suffering and can cost many lives. Whether this situation constitutes an exception is open to debate but now that Ukraine has already been extensively armed through multiple donors, I believe governments need to shift the focus to diplomacy, negotiation, peacemaking efforts and economic tools. The immense benefit of economic integration and peaceful ways of expressing discontent through sanctions have been shown. Despite this Ukraine officials have been asking for weapons ceaselessly and often with little regard to the wider implications of this. This is not at all to blame them, they’re in an extremely difficult situation. This is just a reminder that great caution is required on the part of the countries who supply those weapons. At the very least provision of weapons to Ukraine must be done on strict condition that they are to be used for defence only and absolutely no long range weapons should be provided to Ukraine. NATO thankfully and very wisely said no to Ukraine’s repeated demands for a no fly zone, that would have been even more dangerous. We may be unable to stop the conflict right away but we can and must choose to not be militarily involved while making every other effort to help Ukraine. It’s not weakness, it’s wisdom and wisdom is knowing what to do and what not to do. Compassion must be combined with wisdom to form the pillars of world peace.
Whoever helps bring about peace through diplomacy and negotiation, wherever they are from, deserves the highest recognition possible. Likewise we need more recognition of the subtle actions and words of those who pave the way to de-escalation even if this means breaking from our obsession with the sensational. I believe we should venerate peacemakers more and glorify the fighters less.
Offer a path to de-escalation and cessation of conflict (for negotiators and policy makers)
To encourage Putin to withdraw the Russian troops a concession would be required – something that can be held up to the Russian public to try to justify the invasion and allay concerns. It may seem wrong to offer concessions to an aggressor, but this conflict needs to de-escalate and stop. Russia has already paid a huge price. Any notion that the Russian regime needs to be made to suffer for its wrongdoings at the expense of overall peace is misplaced and deeply unhelpful. We’re all interconnected and conflicts such as this have absolutely no place in our modern society. Justice must be served – war crimes must be investigated and those responsible held to account and sanctions can still be imposed, but our top priority must be the return to peace. Be very wary of anyone who claims fighting is the only way to achieve this.
As of late May the Russian plan seems to be to secure the Southern and Eastern parts of Ukraine and so immediate focus should be on cessation of hostilities and on preventing further advances beyond those areas already secured. The Ukrainian government could make proposals concerning Luhansk and Donetsk regions – for example, they could receive a special status as autonomous entities within Ukraine with right of self-governance within the sovereign jurisdiction of Ukraine and assurance of equal rights and safety for all those who live in these regions1. A compromise could see Russia maintain control for a given time in which it needs to rebuild and repair the places it occupies. However; at the time of writing the peace talks seem to have stalled and so the UN and NATO could offer a way out through some kind of concession or negotiation.
Some ideas from others include a formal declaration that Ukraine will not join NATO, a promise of no further eastern NATO expansion and an agreement that any military aid to Ukraine is to be restored to the same level as it was before the conflict began.
My own idea would be a vote by the general assembly as to whether the UN should have greater control over NATO. For example, an agreement and reaffirmation that all NATO military action must be in self-defence only, such as in response to an invasion of a NATO country. Any other military action of choice by NATO must be via UN security council approval. The UN general assembly could first vote on whether a situation constitutes self-defence or action of choice. This would be conducive to greater peace by dispelling NATOphobia. NATO claims to be a defensive organisation only so such policies would simply be a reaffirmation of that. A further step would be to bring NATO entirely under the control of the security council – however; it’s unrealistic to expect NATO leaders to agree to this at the present time but if and when relations improve in future this could be discussed. These are just general recommendations and the intricacies would need to be finalised, but the point is that an ‘olive branch’ or change in policy offered by the UN or NATO could provide a pathway to de-escalation.
Those involved in negotiations should read the ‘‘Possible Draft of a Framework Agreement on the Restoration of Peaceful Relations between Ukraine and the Russian Federation’’1 by Marc Weller and see which ideas are acceptable to both sides to restart negotiations with some common ground.
Maintain a lasting world peace
We need to realise that nowadays to win a war is likely as disastrous as losing one and that war has absolutely no place in our interconnected society and modern way of life. It will be essential to raise multilateral cooperation and the UN especially will have a huge role to play in creating a truly lasting world peace. We should urgently look at and implement ideas put forward by the Dalai Lama and others about demilitarisation & World peace zones. My own view on how this could be done is shown below. This is a work in progress and an outline without details of implementation – please get in touch if you believe any parts of it require improvement or omission.
1. Set up a World Peace Zone formed from UN member states. There would be greater emphasis on preventing conflict between member states with each member demilitarising together step-by-step. There would be more inclusivity, shared accountability, responsibility and transparency with a true sense of global citizenship. No incursions into any other country or contested territory would be allowed without UN Security Council approval. Any such incursions would be punishable by the UN as a whole and not by any individual country. Disputes between countries or groups, such as territorial claims, would be discussed openly, fairly and peacefully resolved through democratic voting in the UN. For example, after hearing from both sides the UN could vote on the status of a contested territory or vote on the best way to resolve it – referendums in those places overseen by the UN may be one option.
As each member state demilitarises their military infrastructure would step-by-step come under the control of the UN. The (UN) Peacekeeping force could be quickly created through voluntary recruitment of former army personnel in member states – as is currently the case the sole purpose of the Peacekeeping force will be to prevent conflict. The peace and security created by the UN and the Peacekeeping force would eventually take away the need for NATO military alliances. For now rather than just working together with the UN, NATO should be governed by the more inclusive UN.
2. Disband all nuclear weapons
The current situation has made it even clearer that nuclear weapons are a tragic and dangerous idea. Allowing countries to have nuclear weapons to prevent conflict is like letting school kids carry guns to prevent fist fights. The nuclear deterrent is not supposed to mean that a nuclear power can unjustly walk all over another country while the world prays for the sanity of the leaders. Nuclear weapons need to be urgently and systematically reduced in number, with only the UN collectively having control of the few remaining ones. They must then be phased out altogether. All nations need to agree to and abide by the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW).
Incentives for compliance could include more voting power in the UN, membership rights and the lifting or imposing of sanctions or travel restrictions on citizens from those countries. The UN needs to ensure NATO nations work together with China and Russia to reduce the nuclear arsenal systematically and openly to foster better relations. It may not be easy, but this is absolutely vital, nuclear weapons are quite simply the greatest threat we face. We people are good at doing the right thing once we’ve exhausted the other options, the UN for example was formed in 1945. But with nuclear weapons we simply cannot let things deteriorate, learn from our mistakes and then make better policies later on. In order to even have a ‘later on’ we must act now with the absolute highest level of urgency and determination to completely eradicate this threat and support the work of ‘Global Zero’ and other organisations trying to achieve this.
Visual Summary
Final thoughts
As the Dalai Lama has said, this needs to be the century of dialogue and world peace. Bringing about greater trust between East and West blocs will be key, this can be achieved through the UN, more constructive compassionate dialogue, through greater cooperation, through fairer more responsible media reporting in multiple languages and a greater sense of oneness and global citizenship. Language learning is a key aspect of this – especially Arabic, English, Mandarin, and Russian and especially for diplomats, negotiators and leaders.
Many nations have recently recorded their highest ever covid rates, let’s make sure our battle is against a virus and against climate change not ourselves and in so doing come together with greater trust and oneness.
Useful Links
If these ideas seem of value then please do read about and share how the UN are helping to create ‘Peace, dignity & equality on a healthy planet’.
https://www.un.org/en/about-us
The UN also has a news service viewable in many of the World’s languages https://news.un.org/
You can offer support via the UN Refugee Agency https://donate.unhcr.org/int/en/ukraine-emergency#_ga=2.2591859.213436793.1648822811-964581140.1648822811
Read the various articles written by the Dalai Lama about the subject of World peace, the ideas are expressed with far more wisdom and eloquence than in the text above and are free from unnecessary intellectualisation. If you agree that these ideas and philosophies are now of paramount importance then please do share https://www.dalailama.com/messages/world-peace
References
1 Possible Draft of a Framework Agreement on the Restoration of Peaceful Relations between Ukraine and the Russian Federation, Marc Weller,
See also here
PDF of this text is shown below
Reading time about 5 minutes
Our current situation
Starting around March, 2020 the pollution levels in Sutton Coldfield, UK, went down considerably during the first lockdown and many of us started to appreciate cleaner air and birdsong as the noise levels went down. But with the dangers of public transport well documented many have resorted to their cars pushing pollution levels back up to where they were before and possibly beyond. Many drive alone which is hopelessly inefficient and wasteful. Some drive together with others in the vehicle which as of January 2021 is still often unsafe health wise (even though masks and open windows can help mitigate the risk).
The pollution problem in and around Birmingham has become steadily worse over many years with increased traffic anyway so we really do have a traffic and pollution crisis.
The solutions
In the long term we need more electric and hybrid vehicles as well as improved public transport such as trams or light railways. For now though, we also need awareness campaigns to remind people to turn off their engines when parked and waiting and we need the legalization of electric scooters including personally owned ones. But perhaps most importantly we need better cycling infrastructure.
A cycle superhighway along Monmouth drive
I have written about transport for a number of years and have never seen a more ideal location for a cycle superhighway (henceforth CSH). The wide grassy verge on the park side is almost entirely unused. The potential usefulness is shown by the sheer amount of traffic along this road.
The traffic is unsurprising given that it connects Sutton with the highly populated areas of Kingstanding and reaches out towards Walsall and Wolverhampton.
At least some of these drivers would sometimes cycle if this CSH were created therefore reducing pollution and noise for residents. The main benefit though would be vastly improved safety for cyclists compared to going on the road.
The one obvious question is ”Why bother? People can cycle in the park.” Taking a bike through the park to get to Sutton would be a detour for anyone going from some areas around Kingstanding and West of Wylde Green. Obviously those coming from Streetly and surroundings will likely still cycle through the park, but congestion in the park would be reduced enhancing safety and healthy distancing. Importantly it would also provide a safe night-time cycling alternative to going through the park.
Map above showing the proposed route in blue
(All map images from Map data ©2020 Google Earth – used in accordance with Google’s attribution guidelines)
This simple proposal would also create almost zero interference to drivers. Between Banners gate and Somerville Rd there are literally only two places where cars would have to pull out – the entrance to the Sailing club and golf club and then Stonehouse Rd. Drivers would in fact likely be happier given that many cyclists would be off the road altogether.
This is in contrast to the hastily removed Brassington avenue cycle lane which stopped drivers from taking a left turn along park road.
Lessons from Brassington Avenue
I personally was very much in favour of the pop-up cycle lane along Brassington avenue and used it frequently for the few weeks it was there. Going off a main road onto a well-designed separated cycleway greatly enhances the riders’ peace of mind. – this is something more of us need to experience to realise the true value of such bike schemes. The Brassington avenue scheme didn’t even last to the end of its trial period so very few people got a chance to experience this ‘bike-lane peacefulness’. We need to give some such schemes more time to gain traction and enter into people’s consciousness as alternatives. People need time to get used to them and to even be converted to liking them.
Designing for the future – extensions
In the case of Brassington avenue scheme one complaint was that it was isolated and not part of a network.
The truth is that it takes time for a network to emerge and it has to start somewhere. A CSH going along Birmingham Rd to Wylde Green and Chester Rd has been mentioned by others and this would still be both feasible and highly valuable.
In this case let’s be clear from the outset as to how this Monmouth Drive CSH could be extended in future.
Note how Monmouth drive is already a highlighted road within the Starley network plan and how it connects with the TfWM (Transport for West Midlands) route going down to Perry Barr from where the cycle superhighway leads to the city centre.
Shown below is a picture of the various possible future extensions.
Luckily Rough Rd (light blue-left) is more than wide enough to accommodate a full CSH. On the Sutton side (right) one option would be for one small section of Somerville Road and then Wilkinson close (green – right) to be restricted to residents’ cars and cyclists only to form a safer route to Wylde Green train station. This may not be popular among some drivers but the busiest section of Somerville Road beside the park would still be accessible. Alternatively or additionally (and far more ambitiously) Digby Rd (pink – right) would be made one way only for vehicles and incorporate an extension of the CSH connecting to an elevated CSH alongside the railway line leading to Sutton train station and possibly even Wylde Green train station (light blue vertical line – right). This is just an option for many years into the future but would certainly put Sutton ‘on the map’.
Alternatively, a conventional CSH could be built going through the park towards Sutton station.
The future extensions would be optional steps pending the popularity of the initial Monmouth drive scheme and consultations with the public.
Designing for the future – Accommodating transport gadgets
We’re currently witnessing unprecedented innovation in the field of lightweight transport devices with ever more transport tools, ever more features and constantly increasing range and speed. It’s obvious that lightweight portable transport tools – such as escooters – will play a role in our future so we need to allow for this. Legalisation of scooters in Sutton would warrant a name change, I would suggest ‘cycle scooterhighway’ (still abbreviated to CSH so no need to amend any maps).
It’s also absolutely essential that wheelchairs are also allowed on the CSH to create equality of access and equality of joyful peacefulness!
I strongly believe that any well designed CSH nowadays should be wide enough to have at least two people side-by-side going in either direction. I would recommend two lanes – fast and slow, in both directions making a total of four lanes with a total width of at least 4 to 5 metres.
Separation between the two directions of travel is vital to enhance safety and distancing and I would recommend using an uneven or gritty surface for the central reservation making it unpleasant to ride over at any speed but still usable in emergencies.
Some thoughts
There are times when we need to be conservative, hunker down and resist new ideas. There are also times when we need to be liberal and progressive and embrace change. Now, in the middle of a pollution crisis caused by increasing traffic in the middle of a pandemic which threatens to make it even worse is absolutely the time to be progressive and think outside of our metal boxes known as cars. Obviously cars are going to be around given their convenience, but we mustn’t let ‘car fundamentalism’ stop the adoption of other safer, cleaner and more healthy solutions as well. Opportunity presents itself to those with an open mind.
If you think this idea is worthwhile please do share this article and also go to: https://covidmeasuresbirmingham.commonplace.is/overview
Then click ‘Suggest a change to improve walking or cycling’ and navigate to Monmouth drive in Sutton using the map tool and click ‘agree’ with this proposal or any others you would like to see happen.
You can also go to the following URL and ‘upvote’ this proposal.
https://www.widenmypath.com/birmingham/?category=closure#10/52.4066/-1.5391
Thank you for reading. If you can come up with another possibly better idea then please leave a comment. Wishing everyone all the best.
To download a PDF of this proposal click HERE
This is a brief summary of the proposal – reading time 5 to 7 minutes. Further information is available via the hyperlinks in the text.
The current situation
In Birmingham, UK, car traffic has steadily increased in recent years leading to deteriorating air quality and various safety issues.
Given that during the current covid-19 crisis non-essential public transport is discouraged we face the possibility that even more people may be using their cars. This not only poses a danger to the environment and human health in terms of air quality, but also in terms of the virus because many of the extra car journeys will also be with groups of people in the same vehicle.
An additional problem is that many in the city are now turning to motorbikes (the most dangerous form of transport) and petrol scooters (many times more polluting than most cars and far more dangerous for the riders). The noise and anti-social behaviour that sometimes go with their use is also a problem.
The solutions
In March, 2020, we wrote an open letter with the following suggestions:
Most local governments have voiced agreement with points 1 and 2 and escooters have now been legalised with a rental scheme beginning in Birmingham from the late Summer. (No doubt we were simply adding our voice to the existing chorus of calls for change).
More escooters and bikes require more space in which to ride them safely in order for their benefits to be realised so we believe suggestions 1 and 3 are now more important than ever. Therefore, we have created a map of suggested routes in the city to devote to bikes, scooters and other non-polluting lightweight portable transport (henceforth LPT)
Other research has been done in this regard and the local government also have a coherent and impressive network of proposed cycle-superhighway routes (shown later).
After we created our first network of routes we referred to the above research and found that the local government’s plan already incorporates some of the routes we also found to be suitable. Furthermore, the local government’s current map of proposed pop-up cycle lanes uses the same system we have suggested – direct pathways converging in the city centre forming a radial pattern. This radial starfish design allows fair distribution of access for residents from all sides. We strongly support the local government in this excellent initiative and urge them to refer to our routes and those suggested by others to see whether they can also be incorporated. This work needs to be done as quickly as possible.
We envisage three kinds of pathways for bikes, scooters and possibly other forms of LPT (lightweight portable transport).
All three types of pathways above must allow for safe use by, or create alternative provision for, those using mobility scooters, electric wheelchairs and for disabled cyclists. This needs to be a top priority in all transport planning and is why we emphasize adequate width and use of speed lanes. Shown below are the pathways we suggest for the city. Where two or more pathways run in parallel then one of them needs to be chosen.
Thin blue=existing cycle superhighway
Wider blue=proposed cycle-scooter highway
Thin green=proposed greenlane
Wide green=proposed urban greenway
Specific information about each pathway will appear HERE very soon.
Shown above are the Birmingham emergency active travel plan routes – for more information see HERE). Note the similarity to our plans. These routes are longer given that our routes were designed to be extended later pending demand. In fact, given the urgency of the situation and to ensure adequate usage we agree with creating the longer routes right away.
Shown left: locations where temporary cycle lanes could be quickly created and would likely prove most useful as identified by research by Dr Robin Lovelace, Dr Joey Talbot, Dr Malcolm Morgan (University of Leeds Institute for Transport Studies) and Martin Lucas-Smith (CycleStreets). More information HERE and HERE.
These designs above also share some of the same routes but include a complete ring road as well.
Public views on where infrastructure amendments are required to allow for more walking and cycling can be found HERE
Our Methods & factors
Safety is paramount. Therefore we only chose routes with sufficient width space and where absolute separation from vehicles was possible. It simply cannot be emphasised enough how important it is to fully separate cyclists and pedestrians from vehicular traffic – both in terms of safety as well as health.
We also prioritised roads with less junctions and road crossings to allow for more speedy progress for the LPT users.
Another important factor was the creation of fair access to various areas of the city as well as future extendability of the initial pathways.
Also very important is to minimise disruption to drivers and especially to local residents. Any roads with large numbers of personal driveways are not suitable to convert into Urban Greenways unless we allow access to residents. We know this can work – as shown by the successful ‘school streets’ campaign – but it would mitigate safety, speed and air quality. Some urban greenways could allow resident access for the first phase until a review would determine whether to:
A: revert it back to a normal road
B: keep it as it is
C: transform it into a full ‘Urban Greenway’ by banning all large vehicles apart from emergency vehicles.
Our routes were chose using the above principles combined with intuition rather than using any mathematical formulae and so on.
However, we have created two methods of mathematical analysis to evaluate and compare the various pathway options – information about these methods will be provided HERE very soon.
The Value of Urban Greenways
Although more challenging to implement, we believe that ‘Urban Greenways’ are likely to be one of the safest and most effective solutions: minimal to no infrastructure required, maximum safety and social distancing, maximum encouragement to get people out of cars and onto bikes and scooters, massively enhanced air quality for residents on those roads and completely reversible in future if need be. Furthermore, the width is sufficient to allow for safe and comfortable use by those on mobility scooters and modified bikes.
Only a few long routes are required to allow for speedy and safe long distance travel across a city with minimal to no disruption to car drivers on the other roads. Although small-scale local projects and improvements are also valuable, overall we strongly believe this will prove far safer and more cost efficient than peppering a city with a multitude of narrow or hastily created bike lanes. This is also a future proof solution that will fit in well with future developments in transport – especially developments in lightweight transport gadgets or even forms of lightweight electric taxi services – such as electric tuk-tuks. More information on Urban Greenways can be found HERE.
This proposal fits with the Ghent model
Birmingham has sought to model itself on the Belgian city of Ghent with ideas to restrict car flow between adjacent areas to encourage more walking, cycling and possibly scooting. Although it ultimately proved to be very successful, the Ghent plan was highly controversial initially and would likewise cause discontent among some drivers in Birmingham (at least initially). If, however, we create a network of divergent green pathways using the radial pattern, and then limit the numbers of car crossings then we very naturally achieve the Ghent model because this would restrict car movement between areas. In this case it’s also likely that many drivers would be less inclined to complain given the clear visible reason for the blocks. Furthermore, some access routes could be maintained – at least initially and as usage of the green route goes up then some junctions could be blocked to cars, thereby enhancing health, safety and speed for the LPT riders on the route.
Overall conclusion
Hopefully, it’s very clear that this is a cost-effective, efficient and elegant solution that helps us achieve many goals at once and allows us to enhance safety, health and well-being.
Extra Notes
What scooters to use?
https://peacemakerfoundation.com/2020/07/27/transportables-portable-transport-tools/The local government must now choose which scooter vendors to use. For a thorough and objective evaluative comparison of scooters as commuting tools see our own unique interactive matrix evaluation chart HERE where you can quickly find some appropriate scooters based on your priorities. For an extensive specs comparison table see HERE. Although not the most important factor, we would also advocate using any scooters with quite low decks and minimal roll resistance so that riders can use them as regular kick scooters to get exercise or if out of battery. From personal experience I know that using electric scooters manually can also help oncoming pedestrians to feel more at ease. ET-WOW scooters seem especially suitable in this regard.
Alternative solutions
In the long term, perhaps the safest and most convenient approach will be to create elevated greenways or cycle-scooter ways as done in BEIJING and XIAMEN (shown left) in China. https://dissingweitling.com/en/project/xiamen-bicycle-skyway
We could use the space above roads, canals, the river Rea or even above railways for this purpose.
We also previously proposed a network of automated pods to run above the canals in Birmingham, projects like this will be valuable in the long -term. Given current circumstances we believe the immediate focus should now be on safe travel using LPT.
Get in touch
This is still a work in progress and we may incorporate other pathways into the map and are open to suggestions. If you have any queries, comments or would like me (the author) to work with/for you as a researcher and advisor on transport plans, then please do get in touch with me at luc@peacemakerfoundation.com
If any local government would appreciate any input then I’m happy to work with them as one of the designers of the new transport plan or humbly take part in any online meetings.
Thank you for reading.
BELOW IS THE OLD VERSION OF THIS POST – TO SEE THE NEW UPDATED VERSION SEE OUR TRANSPORT WEBSITE HERE: https://greentransportideas.org/2020/07/27/transportables-portable-transport-tools/
Here is an attempt at providing the most rigorous, objective and accurate evaluative comparison of LPT (lightweight portable transport) gadgets to date (2020). They are rated as commuting tools using an extension of the ‘Pugh matrix’ known as the Group Average Matrix Evaluation (GAME) system invented by the author (Luc). Transport tools are in the left column & factors (considerations) are on the top row. Each factor has a weighting (importance value) which is the average importance number given by participants. For example, participants saw the portability factor as important so gave it high importance numbers with an average of 8.6 (weighting). The top speed factor was seen as less important & the average is just 5.8 (weighting). For each factor a gadget is given an achievement score which is how well it performs in that factor area. For example, the Urmo with a handle gets a perfect achievement score of 10 for the portability factor because it’s so light, small & can be pushed by the handle. The achievement score is multiplied by the weighting to produce a weighting x achievement score. So for the Urmo in portability it’s 8.6 (weighting) x 10 (achievement score) = 86 (weighting x achievement score) . The overall score for each gadget is the sum total of all weighting x achievement scores.
This will likely be regularly updated in future so best to come back to this page once in a while.
To view or download a PDF of the above chart click HERE
LIGHTWEIGHT PORTABLE TRANSPORT TOOLS – INTERACTIVE COMPARISON CHART USING THE SELF-ADJUSTING MATRIX EVALUATION (SAME) SYSTEM (also invented by the author)
So which gadget is right for you personally or for your rental scheme? Simply click on the interactive chart below & enter your own weightings (importance values) for the factors. The scores automatically adjust every time you enter a value & when complete each tool will have an overall score to show how suitable it is likely to be for you. We’re attempting the impossible – it will never be 100% accurate or comprehensive but should give you a clear objective picture on which to base your intuition. Just replace the default weighting of 5 with your own weighting (from 1 to 10). Works best with a touchscreen – just swipe within the chart to move around. You can also use the scroll bar within the chart or arrow keys to move around. Your amendments will be reset if you leave this page. For more exact instructions swipe or scroll to the top of the chart.
For scooter rental schemes
If you are looking here for a scooter to use in a rental scheme with a capped speed lower than all the top speeds of the scooters shown then you should enter ‘0’ as a weighting (importance value) for the speed factor. Likewise, you may wish to give ‘portability’ a lower weighting given that most users will dock their scooters rather than push or carry them around. We advocate giving ‘manual use’ (pushing with feet) a high weighting given the importance of exercise, convenience of carrying on if out of charge. Using electric scooters manually can also help oncoming pedestrians to feel more at ease (personal experience) and a lightweight scooter suitable for manual use may also translate into enhanced pedestrian safety. Factors contributing to ‘manual use’ but not included in the matrix are ‘deck height’ and ‘degree of roll resistance’. A low deck and minimal roll resistance allow a scooter to be used manually. Among others ET-WOW scooters (AKA uscooters) seem especially suitable in this regard and they are being promoted as suitable scooters for rental schemes. Furthermore some of the ET-WOW scooters have received top ratings from users – see HERE.
If you would like us to make a revised matrix with additional factors specific to your rental scheme just let us know – happy to help.
UPDATE JULY 2020 – The ‘Zoom’ company seems to be out of business now. Also various other scooters not included here have been highly rated on Electric Scooter Guide.com so check them out as well HERE if interested.
We believe that we now need to embrace lightweight portable transport to help slow global warming, boost people’s well-being through cleaner air & maintaining a safe social distance while avoiding enclosed spaces with others. If you agree & wish to see more electric devices such as scooters legalised for personal use as well as in rental schemes then please sign this petition: http://chng.it/JgCQNW2pZW
To see mindmaps showing pros and cons of different transport gadgets click HERE
Some older gadgets – a comparison chart made in 2015
Download
PDF: Transportables
Word File: Transportables
So what should we call these things? I suggested:
‘Transportables‘ (transport tools that are portable)
& also ‘Lightweight Portable Transport‘ (LPT).
Here are some competing names:
Personal transport gadgets (PTGs?)
Personal Light Electric Vehicles‘ (PLEVs) (the term used by the UK government),
‘Powered Transporters‘,
‘Rideables‘ (possibly from Wired magazine).
An open letter from the Peacemaker Foundation (Reading Time 2 to 3 minutes)
Update May 2020: Since the time of first sharing these ideas in early March 2020, more and more places have already started following some of these suggestions. We need to make sure we keep up the momentum and see these beneficial changes happen in more places.
THE PROBLEM
At present we face the challenge of providing people with safe forms of transport in which they do not occupy enclosed spaces with others and can maintain a safe social distance. The hazards of public transport right now are well documented, but many are falsely assuming that car journeys are safe. A car is an even more enclosed space than a train or bus, so the only way it’s going to be safer is if you travel alone or with people you know for sure to be virus free and take precautions.
Hordes of people avoiding public transport by travelling in cars alone is a scenario we must avoid for obvious health and environmental reasons. The virus may just be Mother nature’s wake up call, reminding us of our biggest problem – global warming. We absolutely need to take this fleeting window of a chance to do better.
THE SOLUTION
1. Widen and improve existing bike lanes and cycle-superhighways now while we have less traffic in order to enhance cycling safety and allow greater social distancing. Any cycle superhighways should have at least two lanes in either direction (slow and fast) with clear barriers to divide the two directions and further enhance safety. All efforts should be made to separate cyclists from vehicle traffic and pedestrians – even if it means elevating the cycle pathway over some or all roads. See a good example from Beijing HERE.
2. Legalise electric scooters as a matter of urgency and other allow them to be used on the improved bike lanes and cycle-superhighways – henceforth ‘cycle-scooter ways’.
3. Make ‘Urban Greenways’. Rather than peppering a city with inadequate bike lanes, simply take a small number of roads and devote them entirely to green lightweight transport devices by banning cars: minimal to no infrastructure required, maximum safety and social distancing, maximum encouragement to get people out of cars and onto bikes and scooters, massively enhanced air quality for residents on those roads, maximum fun and completely reversible in future if need be. North-South and East-West routes converging in the city centre would be a perfect start to allow speedy and safe long distance travel!
THE TIME IS NOW
If local governments do this now there will be far less pushback than if they wait. This is what we should have done long, long before anyway, but we’ve been blinded by our obsession with cars for so long that it hasn’t happened in most places. Smoke gets in your eyes. Nevermind, we can do it now, we must do it now.
THE KINDS OF CHANGES WE NEED TO SEE:
In Germany, Paris, New Zealand and elsewhere local governments have created pop-up cycle lanes using various removable materials. Later on these widened bike ways could be made permanent.
In Birmingham, UK, pollution has risen with excessive car use in recent years. The local government created two high-quality cycle superhighways which have been criticised for hardly being used. As soon as we legalise electric scooters it’s obvious that they will become well-used and this will help to clear the air. The existing two cycle-superhighways form a disconnected South-to-North pathway – we now need an East-to-West path as well please.
In London various cycle-superhighways are now becoming victims of their own success and are far too busy to allow for safe social distancing. They’re also often quite unsafe given that they’re bi-direction without separation – so cyclists pass each other at high speeds. Identical paths parallel to or elevated above the existing ones should be created without delay. Then each cycle-superhighway can become one way only – safer in every respect. If parallel, then we could simple allocate one of the traffic lanes for now, and later on make the change permanent.
SUMMARY
We need to:
Let’s do this now please. If we do, we may look back one day and see that in fact it was the virus that saved us.
To see our letter written in early March 2020 to the Future of transport team in the UK click HERE
The other day on my solitary run in the park I saw people holding hands, people sharing a spliff, some young guys sitting in a car (with the engine running) while drinking from a bottle. On my way to a lesson recently I had to get on a busy bus and there was a lady eating her supper. Snowdonia national park recently recorded its busiest day on record as people flocked there in their cars. And all of this as the UK started going into lockdown against a threat the likes of which we’ve never seen before.
We know the main solution – minimise contact with others as much as possible and stay home. But what has not come through clearly enough is that if possible you should still stay two metres apart from those in your home where possible – especially in the first weeks of the family isolation and especially if they have not been abiding by the guidelines themselves. There is a dangerous myth that if you’re all in a house together then you either all have it or not. This is wrong, it’s perfectly possible to share a house with someone who has the virus and not get it if you take the right steps (normally away from other people) and maintain your immune system. Your immune system can often deal with one-off attacks but do not overload it. This means avoid enclosed spaces with others – even family for now. Sorry, as of 30 March, unnecessary car journeys with others are really NOT a good idea. Wait a while. If it’s unavoidable then take the sensible cleaning precautions, wear a mask, and open a window (see HERE for more info). This is now a great time to walk or ride a bike to get to the park – we have cleaner air and less traffic than we’ve had in years.
Please, if enough of us do take these steps then we’ll get through this much more quickly and be stronger, wiser and more grateful for it.
So obviously the problem and the solution is our behaviour – this is what we can control in the present moment. So I believe that for any outsiders to blame the Chinese government for what it did or didn’t do in the past is deeply unhelpful – there are plenty of people in China doing that already (see HERE). China’s response, although perhaps initially flawed, has effectively mitigated the spread of the virus. The lockdown strategy was initially questioned – but thanks to China we can see that is the gold standard approach we need. In terms of searching for a cure or vaccine Chinese researchers have helped hugely. To start with Chinese researchers constructed the whole genomic sequence of the new virus and promptly shared it (See HERE). Also some of the most promising ongoing research into treatments is coming from China – such as using convalescent plasma of recovered patients for example. China also sent the first aid to Italy with a plane packed full of medical equipment along with nine experienced doctors to help (See HERE)
It seems clear that this virus was just a quirk of nature, a new virus that arose randomly, probably in bats or snakes, as part of life’s great quest to exist by replicating and changing. But it would currently be hard to disprove anyone if they said an alien species shot a beam from outer space onto that Wuhan market and created the virus, or who said that it was the work of some mad scientist. Or maybe it’s Mother Nature’s grand call for us all to reconnect with the World, be wiser, more compassionate and perhaps more respectful. This may be a form of philosophical Darwinist evolution whereby compassionate and less selfish societies are less affected. In Japan and Taiwan the response has been relatively successful and in both places mask wearing is common practice. The reason is often not to protect the wearer but those around them. So maybe the real virus is selfishness and ignorance and it’s that which we need to overcome now.
Luckily most people are behaving admirably and there all sorts of true heroes around us – well over half a million people in the UK signed up to volunteer to help the national Health service. And luckily the vast majority of people out here in the West, or in the UK at least, do not openly condemn the Chinese government, far less the Chinese people. In such a situation it’s also often the case that members of an ethnic group (in this case Chinese) become hyper-conscious or hyper-sensitive which may lead to some false accusations of prejudice or stereotyping alongside the legitimate claims. But the golden rule is that we are all valuable. Any mindless stereotyping or disparaging and unfair behaviour towards an ethnic group is deeply wrong. All is one is all – in essence we are the same. And everyone is many (we each have various aspects to our character). So if you know any one trying to point the finger, tell them to point it at those not following the guidelines – not at China.
We cannot change the past we can only work with the present. A good sailor is known in bad weather and this is a storm we need to ride out spiritually together while staying apart physically. Let’s do this now and start creating a world with more love, awareness, respect, compassion and wisdom. This may be what Mother Nature is asking us to do.
Introduction
In Birmingham, UK, car traffic has increased in recent years leading to increased pollution and congestion which pose a threat to health and well-being.[1]
This is a proposal to use small lightweight vehicles known as pods or pod cars on elevated tracks to help resolve the city’s transport problems.
Pod car proposals for Birmingham
Pod cars
Pod cars are a form of personal rapid transport (PRT). They are automated pods which move on a track. The passenger simply steps in a pod at a station and selects the destination station. The pod will then move continuously to the destination without stops at other stations along the way. This is possible because stations are set alongside the main guideway track. Despite low speeds (often between 10 and 25 mph), journey times are quick thanks to the continuous motion. The pods are generally small and may accommodate only several people at once.
Benefits of pod cars on an elevated track
• Light
Given the relatively light weight of the pod cars an elevated track can be made using less materials than used for an elevated track for trains, trams or other large vehicles. Therefore the design can be less conspicuous, more elegant and the track can even be designed to let light through.
• Safety
Once elevated or separated from other traffic, pod cars are a far safer alternative to any other form of transport that shares the same road space with other kinds of transport. Rail transport such as trams and trains, are known to be a very safe mode of transport, however; when they share the road space with other vehicles this can cause accidents and delays.[2] Furthermore, the tram tracks are a serious risk to cyclists and those on scooters.
• Good views
An elevated track brings good views along the way.
• Air Quality
Air quality usually improves with height [3] – so the air quality for passengers on an elevated track is likely to be far better than on the ground.
• Security
With regard to crime and security concerns such as terrorism, pod cars offer one of the very safest forms of public transport. Given the fixed routes on a track there is no threat of them being used as weapons (as with cars or trucks). The small size of the pods also means there is no potential for attacks among large groups of people on the journey. Safety is further increased by the fact that the pods do not stop along the way. Areas where the pods run (such as canals) are likely to experience enhanced safety owing to the increased visibility, especially if the pods are raised above the ground allowing passengers a good view of surroundings.
• Long-term utility
An elevated track is more future proof because we avoid future interference when ground-level infrastructure undergoes repair or change. Also whether or not innovations such as driverless cars become very popular, the elevated pod car network will retain its value as a way to reduce congestion on ground level – and the capacity of the network can be adapted to suit the city’s changing needs.
• Reliability
Transport on a well designed elevated track is less likely to be influenced by leaf fall, trespassers and so on.
Benefits of pod cars in general
• Environmentally friendly
Pod cars are a sustainable and pollution free alternative mode of transport.
• Cheap
Pod cars are relatively cheap to build and offer higher rates of return than many other transport modes. The cost of constructing the pod car network is far lower than for the equivalent length of subway or elevated rail track.[4]
• Relaxation
Once a destination is selected, the pods move with no driving necessary, so the passenger can relax and enjoy the view.
• Even more Safety
The low but continuous speed enhances safety yet further.
• Efficiency
The continuous motion saves energy – starting and stopping is hugely wasteful in terms of energy. They are also more energy efficient than large vehicles or mass transport tools at times of low usage. This is because running a whole train, bus or tram with few people on is obviously inefficient and wasteful. Usually only those pod cars with passengers are in motion, while the other pods remain at stations ready for other passengers, however; empty pods can be directed to busy stations if need be.
• Tried & Tested
The ultra PRT pod car network in Heathrow airport has been running since 2011 and has proven itself to be efficient, reliable and highly popular.[5] The system was ‘‘voted by customers as their favourite airport passenger service’’.[6] Other systems are running elsewhere, such those in Masdar city, Suncheon, Korea and Morganstown, United States.[7]
• Simultaneous entry
A number of pods can wait for passengers at every station so that potentially several groups of people could get on at once. So wait times would likely be far less than for many bus, tram or train services. In the Heathrow pod car system the average weight time is around 10 seconds. [8]
• Quiet
The pods are far quieter than most trains or other large vehicles.
• Novelty
The novelty and convenience of the pod cars would help boost the fame of the city and bring in more visitors.
• Gradual construction in stages
The pod car network could be built in stages allowing for a trial period before a full scale network is constructed. Likewise, we could add more pods to the network if or when the demand rises.
• Compatibility
Given the relatively low cost of the network it can be built in addition to other transport solutions. So it need not, and should not, replace other recent worthwhile initiatives such as the cycle superhighways, the tram network and so on.[9]
Disadvantages of pod cars
• Large numbers of pods required
Because pod cars are small, many pods are required to provide a high-capacity service. This increases likelihood of mechanical failure or some other problem with a given pod on the network. However, the technology has already proven itself to be extremely reliable and if a pod car breaks down on the main track then there is a way to ‘‘push failed vehicles from behind to the nearest station.’’[10] Furthermore, given the small size and relatively low cost of each pod compared to a train or tram, each pod can be moved, taken away, serviced or even replaced with far greater ease than many larger transport tools.
Given the large number of pods required, the track will likely experience a high volume of pod traffic. So the pods will probably pass by people’s homes and offices with more regularity than trains or trams. However; the fact that the pods are relatively quieter, small and pollution free should help them to gain acceptance or favour.
• Ugly?
Some may find them visually unappealing especially if on an elevated track. Hopefully the lightweight construction and light permeability of the design will help increase acceptance. A strategically located track above a pedestrian path, canal tow path or bike lane, could even serve as a very useful rain shelter while allowing enough light in from the sides and a good view of the surroundings.
Recommendations for Birmingham – pod cars over canals & rivers
We propose putting a pod car network above the canals, and possibly the rivers, in Birmingham. This would bring yet more benefits in addition to those already mentioned.
Benefits of pod cars above canals
• Space & ownership
There is enough space so no infrastructure needs to be moved. Also none of the space is privately owned.
• Less negative impact
The canal boat traffic is far less than vehicle traffic, so any inconvenience caused by the elevated track or construction will influence far fewer people than if the track were constructed above a road.
• Direct routes
The canals offer extremely direct routes into the city centre from various locations – many not served by trains.
• Regeneration
The small size of the stations means they would be numerous and be built in various neglected parts of the city, helping regeneration.
• Serving new developments
The main areas of large scale building projects such as Broad Street, Eastside, Smithfields and Paradise Circus will all need improved public transport access. Luckily these areas are all in close proximity to canals so would be served by the pod cars. This will then reduce pressure on other the transport services.
Image taken from 2020 Google Maps Data & highlights added. A map showing some possible pod car routes above canals in blue and major building projects in yellow. The river Rea route (narrower) could be a future extension pending demand.
Image taken from Google maps data (2020) & amended. Map showing a possible initial pod car network in blue. Extensions could be added in future, perhaps going over rivers or some roads like the A4540 to form a loop around the city centre.
• Improving canal-side safety
Thanks to the resurfacing of the canal towpaths, the canals are now used regularly by cyclists and pedestrians. However; this brings obvious safety issues when there is competition for space.[11] It’s likely that many of the pedestrians and some of the cyclists would use the pod car service thereby reducing the canal side congestion and improving safety.
A very helpful addition to the city, even without the pod cars, would be an elevated walkway for pedestrians running over the canal towpath. This would separate cyclists and pedestrians. The pod car stations would be easily accessed from this walkway using stairs and ramps or lifts (for disabled access).
• Enhanced security on the canals
There have been various reported incidents of robberies on the canals in Birmingham. The enhanced visibility the pods would bring, will increase personal safety for those walking or cycling along the canals as well as for those in canal boats. It may be that the canals outside the city centre even become pleasant places for a night stroll, presenting new business opportunities such as canal-side cafes and so on.
• Less disruption
The construction of the network above the canals would bring less disruption to traffic than if it were constructed above roads. In addition, air quality for construction workers will be far better than alongside busy roads.
• A major tourist attraction
The canals are a scenic attribute of Birmingham and an important tourist attraction. Riding along the canals in a pod car will likely become a popular activity for tourists and residents alike.
• Integration into existing infrastructure
Bridges over the canals can support the structure of the track and lead to pod car stations. This could potentially reduce construction time, costs and materials.
Disadvantages of pod cars above the canals
• A high track
The track would need to rise over the canal bridges such as road and rail crossings so would need to allow safe passage for all vehicles driven over the bridges. Either the entire track is made high enough or gentle rises can take it over the bridges. Where space allows, the track could also be diverted under the bridges although the height may actually add to the novelty and enhance views from the pods.
• Peace and tranquility of the canals
Some may view the pods as an ugly distraction from the peace and tranquility of the canals. But equally many may regard the pods as a welcome visual addition that adds life to otherwise dull areas.
Alternative or complementary transport solutions
1. Greenways over the canals
To help combat pollution, big cities around the world will need to cater to the increased popularity of small electric transport devices such as scooters and electric bikes, as well as bicycles. An alternative to having an elevated pod car track would be to have elevated ‘greenways’ – green gadget super-highways reserved only for small lightweight non-polluting transport devices such as bikes and scooters.[12] This could also be built over the river Rea, and perhaps along some roads, while the pod cars run above the canals.
A greenway over a canal
Birmingham’s population is rising, so it’s likely that in future we would benefit from a combination of both elevated pod car and greenways. The hanging pod cars network could be adapted so the space above is used as a greenway or walkway. This may require further bolstering of the structure to support the increased weight but is a clear advantage of this design and ensures yet further future-proofing (long-term utility).
Dual purpose pod car track & greenway (bike & scooter path)
2. Turning roads into greenways
In addition to the pod cars and other ideas we strongly believe that a necessary solution for many cities around the World is to take a select few roads leading into the city centre and convert them into greenways. In 2019 the local Birmingham government wisely chose to build two cycle-superhighways instead of six bike lanes. Likewise, several greenways with complete segregation from vehicular traffic would be far safer and more worthwhile than a myriad of bike paths alongside roads. A greenway would be entirely reversible if need be, but if popular then more infrastructure could be added such as pedestrian bridges enhancing safety and allowing continuous flow for pedestrians and those on the greenway alike. See HERE for more information.
Above: A proposed greenway with pod car track as an optional later addition
3. An elevated light rail system
DCC Doppelmayr Cable Car / CC BY-SA (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/)
An elevated monorail, or tram system could also be built. For example, Birmingham airport’s people mover (see image) would be a good option for the city because elevated, but this would require heavier more costly infrastructure and the trains/trams would have to stop at every station along the way. Therefore we believe it makes more sense to use elevated pod cars while reopening unused railway lines or transforming them into tramways, greenways or a combination.
A conclusion
Whatever we choose to do, we need to segregate pedestrians, bikes and other vehicles wherever possible. We believe that pod car tracks over canals and possibly rivers is clearly a very good answer to Birmingham’s traffic and transport problems. Even if built over roads many of the benefits would be kept. By looking logically at the various aspects of this idea the potential benefits become clear. We have shown how this is a low cost, sustainable and safe transport option. Even the main design issue of how we can incorporate the bridges into the design are entirely resolvable. So the greatest hurdle to overcome will be people’s apprehension towards new ideas. In Birmingham, the traffic has now become so busy, with air quality so poor in certain areas, that we now need to overcome our apprehensions and look for solutions urgently.
If you also feel this is a valuable proposal, for Birmingham or any other city, then please do share with others. If you have any recommendations, comments or queries please get in touch and help get our transport on the right track!
[1] https://www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/research-campaigning/hot-topics/transport-and-congestion/.
[2] https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/623366/light-rail-tram-ending-march-2017.pdf
[3] http://www.wsp-pb.com/PageFilesn/80156/WSPPB%20City%20Air%20Quality%20at%20Height.pdf
[4] https://www.ultraglobalprt.com/how-it-works/costs/
[5] https://www.ultraglobalprt.com/wheres-it-used/
[6] http://www.futureairport.com/features/featuremy-pod-heathrows-capsular-travel-system-4377991/
[7] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Personal_rapid_transit
[8] http://www.bbc.com/autos/story/20140910-hands-off-with-heathrows-pods
[9] https://www.business-live.co.uk/opinion-analysis/dont-think-birmingham-solving-traffic-10914789
[10] https://www.railway-technology.com/projects/personal-rapid-transit/
[11] https://www.theguardian.com/cities/2019/jul/27/on-roads-cyclists-are-vulnerable-but-on-towpaths-theyre-the-menace.
[12] https://peacemakerfoundation.com/category/world-health/urban-flow-plan/
To download this proposal in PDF form please click HERE
All images & writing by Luc@Peacemakerfoundation.com unless credited otherwise
Here are some Mindmaps showing the various advantages & disadvantages of different lightweight portable transport (LPT) tools. Please let us know if you feel additional information needs to be included.
Download a PDF of the above mindmap HERE
Download a PDF of the above mindmap HERE
Download a PDF of the above mindmap HERE
To see a far more in depth analysis of the pros and cons of various lightweight portable transport gadgets click HERE
對不起, 還沒翻譯好.
這些英文的言語適合上課用, 特別是英文課因為老師可以挑選課內容相關的言語. 言語都可以做成”智慧卡“.
Wisdom makes a better present
Here are what I believe to be some of the most helpful and special quotes of all time. This collection is unique because it can almost be read as a single flowing text owing to the interconnectedness of the ideas. This collection started as a series of simple life guidelines I wrote for young English learners interspersed with related quotes. Over the years more and more quotes were added and much of my own slightly shoddy writing discarded.
Attention teachers! Sharing a relevant topic related quote in class can be a really interesting way to start discussions and get learners thinking.
I have found these quotes ideal for English classes and I keep a record of what quotes I have shared with what classes so that I can make class specific quotes lists and we can have fun review sessions. These quotes can also be used as part of the ‘Wisdom Cards‘ idea.
下載 PDF
W.I.S.E (Wisdom In Studying English) Helpful Quotes & Sayings Short Version (as above)
W.I.S.E (Wisdom In Studying English) for Peacemakerfoundation.com Medium Version (Includes some quotes from the author)
W.I.S.E (Wisdom In Studying English) for Peacemakerfoundation.com Longer Version (Includes quotes and simple explanations or advice from the author. Possibly suitable for some beginner level English language learners and children.)
Hand ups beat handouts hands down. The best way to help someone is often not by handing out money or food, but by giving them the means to earn it and feel valuable – one of our most basic human needs. Here is one possible way:
Here’s a collection of WISE QUOTES that could be made into wisdom cards.
Download PDF
Download PDF
Wisdom makes a better present
Here are what I believe to be some of the most helpful and special quotes of all time. This collection is unique because it can almost be read as a single flowing text owing to the interconnectedness of the ideas. This collection started as a series of simple life guidelines I wrote for young English learners interspersed with related quotes. Over the years more and more quotes were added and much of my own slightly shoddy writing discarded.
Attention teachers! Sharing a relevant topic related quote in class can be a really interesting way to start discussions and get learners thinking.
I have found these quotes ideal for English classes and I keep a record of what quotes I have shared with what classes so that I can make class specific quotes lists and we can have fun review sessions. These quotes can also be used as part of the ‘Wisdom Cards‘ idea.
Download PDF
W.I.S.E (Wisdom In Studying English) Helpful Quotes & Sayings Short version (as above)
W.I.S.E (Wisdom In Studying English) for Peacemakerfoundation.com Medium Version (Includes some quotes from the Peacemaker Foundation)
W.I.S.E (Wisdom In Studying English) for Peacemakerfoundation.com Long Version (Includes quotes & advice or explanations from the author written in simple language, suitable for some beginner level English language learners and children)
此對比表是2015年做的.我們以後會更新. 
上面的資訊是按照公司提供的資料而不是按照自己的經驗或研究。Phunkeeduck 的資料還沒確定是對的。如果看到任何什麼錯誤歡迎您連絡我們。謝謝!
如果您打算買可是直覺還沒告訴您哪一台最適合，那就可以利用決策矩陣的方式。點擊下面看一個例子。
如果要學會用平衡車那一定要看一下的安全學習的方法說明。它是按照我自己的學 Hovertrax 的經驗寫出來的。
學會兩輪電動自平衡車
十個步驟
電動自平衡車好玩也很方便，但是除非用得很拿手並沒那麼安全。您一定要先去安全的場所把一下的十個步驟學會再能騎在大馬路旁邊或其他有挑戰性的環境。千萬不要到大馬路邊學習。安全的場所算是運行軌跡，籃球場, 網球場, 遊樂場等等。好了好了, 開始了。
外出用車前
1.了解功能
仔細閱讀手冊和其他信息，並確保你知道如何關閉等等。
2.理解概念
一定要理解自平衡車的概念。
前傾=往前走
後傾=倒退
右腳前傾，左腳後傾=左轉
左腳前傾，右腳後傾=有轉
可以練習用您的手或坐在床上把你的腳放在自平衡車上面。
在一個安全的場所
3.上車
把一個腳放在車上面保持平衡。另一腳很快的放在上面。
4.下車
一腳走下放在車後面, 另一腳保持平衡在車上面 。
5.停車
長練習停車的方法。普通停車的方法就是後傾斜。 如果高速時要很快的停下來可以後傾斜同時往下蹲伏, 手與地面平行。要多練習看一看您在多麼短的距離能停車。Hovertrax 應該能 1米到1.5米之內停下來。
6.車削
練習專車在一個位置(一個腳前傾，另一個腳後傾) 和 轉彎 (一個腳前傾，另一個腳平衡)。
7.倒車
練習往後跑。
8.倒車時轉彎
練習往後跑同時轉彎。
9.緊急走下
在崎嶇地形上面一些自平衡車容易卡住或突然轉向所以您需要練習高速緊急走下的防法喔。注意! 要很小心，如果走下時腳下推平台車就會隨著移動。
開始的時候要往前慢慢跑，然後第一腳快速的垮到車前面, 然後 第二腳跨到最前面。
10. 速度和穩定性
當您其他的步驟完全學會了在能做高速保持穩定的測試。注意: 一些車容易突然轉向所以要特別小心。
一次接著一次您可以逐漸增加速度, 每一次更快一點。如果自平衡車的速度控制向後傾斜，或它發出噪音或震動要降低車速, 不要繼續增加速度因為如果車沒辦法更快那有跌到的危險。
高速時要往前走兩腳有儘量平衡。
摘要
1. 理解機器和概念
2. 完全學會基本的動作
3. 最後再可以學習更高級的動作
下載上面的文字
學會兩輪電動自平衡車
鏈接
自平衡獨輪車(英文)
精彩 Solowheel、Hovertrax、Phunkeeduck、 zBoard Pro 的審查。它也說明安全的重要
It’s about time we each take responsibility for saving our climate & stand on our own two wheels! The chart below was made in 2015, updated version soon to follow.
Note: table is based on information online in 2015. Phunkeeduck details may be incorrect – received no response from the company to confirm. If you see any errors or have any useful suggestions please let me know.
Download this table
Lean Machines PDF
Lean Machines Word file
See this post in Mandarin Chinese (看中文版)
In case you plan to buy one and intuition isn’t telling you which one to go for then you can make a decision matrix using the table. A great technique if it’s done well. Click below to see an example.
The text below is really important if you’re going to learn to ride a self-balancing scooter. It’s based on my own experiences learning the Hovertrax.
Learning to Ride an Electric Self-balancing Scooter
Self-balancing electric foot scooters are fun and convenient but not as safe as you might think. It’s essential that you master the following steps before even considering riding beside a road, in a busy public place or other challenging environment.
When learning you will need a safe place with lots of space and a large open flat surface such as a running track, the center of a gymnasium, a tennis court or a playground.
Before going out with your scooter
1. Understand the functions
Read the manual and other information carefully and make sure you know how to turn it on, off, and so on.
2. Understand the concept
Before you hop on, be sure you understand the concept of how it works and can visualise how the angles of the feet correlate with speed and turning.
Tilt forward = go forwards.
Tilt back = go backwards.
Right tilt forwards, left back = turn left
Left tilt forwards, right back = turn right
You can practice angling and turning your hands or sit on a chair or edge of a bed putting your feet on the device while it’s switched off pretending you’re riding.
In a safe practice location
3. Getting on
Put your dominant foot level on the scooter and bring the other foot up quickly.
4. Getting off
Step off behind the scooter keeping one foot level on the platform to prevent the scooter rolling away.
5. Stopping
Practice regular stopping as well as abrupt stopping at high speeds. For high speed stopping as you tilt your feet back crouch down with hands level to the ground until you reach a stop. You should aim to be able to come to a complete stop in the shortest possible distance (about 1 to 1.5 m for the Hovertrax at near top speed).
6. Turning
Practice turning on the spot (one foot tilting back, the other tilting forward) and turning at speed (one foot level, the other tilting forward). You could use plant pots or other such objects to form a practice slalom course.
7. Reversing
Practice going backwards.
8. Reversing & turning
Practice going backwards and turning.
9. Stepping off while moving
Many foot scooters may get stuck on rough terrain. To prepare for this learn to step off while going at speed. Be extra careful because if when you step off your foot pushes down on one side of the platform the scooter will move in the corresponding direction. It could zoom out from under your feet or even back under your feet.
Go slowly in a straight line and then while moving take a quick and little step putting one foot in front of the machine resting on your toes with the heel up. Then follow with a larger step with your other foot flat on the ground. The first foot should stabilize you and stop the machine from rolling on as it goes into the sole of your shoe.
10. Speed & stability
Only once you’re ready and have fully mastered the other steps should you very carefully and very gradually have a go at seeing how fast you can go safely maintaining stability. Take multiple goes, each time increasing your speed a little more. Once the speed control tilts you back, or the device strains or wobbles then slow down right away. You must never try to increase the speed beyond this point otherwise the device may not have enough power to keep up with your leaning and you could fall.
At speed you must make absolutely sure that you keep both feet as level as possible on the platforms to keep a straight line.
Summary
Download the above text as a PDF:
Learning to ride an electric self-balancing scooter
Links
See here for a comparison table of self-balancing electric Wheels like the Solowheel
Great video review of Solowheel, Hovertrax, Phunkeeduck & the zBoard Pro
The Peacemaker Foundation aims to help improve life quality by promoting ideas relating to health, peace, love & happiness. These free educational materials are designed to be used both in classrooms and in public awareness campaigns.
Projects include proposals for safer greener urban spaces as well as awareness campaigns to reduce engine idling & promote green transport.
The Peacemaker Foundation was started by Luc Hubert, an artist, inventor, philosopher and teacher. This is not a religious website & there’s no hidden agenda other than to help. All artwork, writing and ideas on this website are original and were done by Luc unless stated otherwise.
If you’d like to help out, get involved, or need more information then feel free to get in touch.
You can also email Luc (the Peacemaker Founder) at: Luc@peacemakerfoundation.com
問題是如何滿足我們的能源需求用安全、可持續的、友好型的方式。答案是
飄在風中。The question is how to meet our energy needs in a safe & sustainable way. The answer is blowing in the wind
(照片來自 http://www.govtech.com, 文字是我們加上的）(Photo from http://www.govtech.com, text added)
‘‘Whatever you can do or dream you can, begin it.
Boldness has genius, power and magic in it!”
（W. H. Murray in The Scottish Himalaya Expedition, 1951, paraphrasing Johann Wolfgang von Goethe）
‘‘（不管是什麼， 如果你能做或覺得你能做開始做。 氣魄裡面有天才、力量、和魔術。）”
（W. H. Murray，1951, 復述 Johann Wolfgang von Goethe 的話）
這是為了促進友好型的能源，不只是風力。如果跟風力比較起來的話其他可再生能源有一些好處。 比如說，太陽能不需要任何什麼會動的零件所以比較容易保養、對於鳥沒有威脅、而且是安靜的。 不過未來可能還會需要風能： 最大的風力渦輪機的產生電量是巨大，小的風力渦輪機可放在屋頂上面或其他方便的地方，而且新的風力渦輪機的設計有一些好處：更安靜、更便宜、對鳥更安全、需要的土地更少、而且效率高。
This is to promote renewable energy in general rather than just wind turbines. Other renewable energy options have some advantages over wind energy. For example, solar power requires no moving parts so potentially means less maintenance, no threat to birds and no noise. However; wind energy is likely here to stay for now: the energy output of some of the largest wind turbines is colossal, small turbines can conveniently be put up onto roofs or various other places and furthermore new wind turbine designs claim to offer numerous advantages such as less noise, less cost, less threat to birds, use of less space and greater efficiency.
If you want to help reduce global warming you can support Avaaz
The Peacemaker Foundation 
