The research from the Social Market Foundation (SMF) think tank, based on data from the Department for Transport, found a correlation between car dependency and loneliness across all regions, most acutely seen in rural towns. It was the least impactful in cities, where people had access to more reliable transport alternatives.
The correlation is statistically significant. The SMF report that “loneliness increases by 5 per cent for every 20 per cent fall in satisfaction with public transport and active travel. Put another way, failing to provide alternatives to cars is making people more lonely and more isolated.”
There are so many benefits from getting out of the motorized metal box and out into the world, not the least of which is getting more sunlight and exposure to “some kind of green, whether it be the grass of a park or the leaves on a tree-lined street.” (And yes, there are studies showing the importance of green to mental health.)
By all means, make use of your car when it’s the right vehicle for the job, but make sure you use other modes of transport when they’re appropriate — it’s good for you!
Save these images if you need to, and look at them every now and again!
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