System Dynamics for Sustainable Transportation Policies: A Systematic Literature Review

Wlisses Bonelá Fontoura,Glaydston Mattos Ribeiro

doi:10.1590/2175-3369.013.e20200259

Wlisses Bonelá Fontoura, Glaydston Mattos Ribeiro

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1590/2175-3369.013.e20200259

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Abstract

Abstract Systems Dynamics (SD) is an efficient method that allows to analyze systems with dynamic complexity and policy resistance. The holistic approach of SD is suitable to analyze the current transportation problems. Among the applications of SD in the transportation sector, the use of this tool in the development and implementation of sustainable transport policies stands out. In this context, this paper aims to conduct a systematic literature review to assess the use of SD in the development and implementation of urban policies focused on sustainable transportation. The results show that most studies analyze policies focused on reducing the negative externalities of transportation, highlighting the efforts to reduce air pollutant emissions and traffic congestion. However, we did not find a study that analyzes non-motorized and motorized modes by economic, environmental, social, spatial and traffic variables. At the end of this study, the gaps found in the literature are pointed out, being available to further exploration in future studies.

Highlights

Intensive urban growth can lead to environmental, economic, social and traffic issues (Khakee, 2014; Hassan and Lee, 2015)
The new travel pattern exacerbates the negative externalities in urban areas, resulting in frequent traffic congestion, air pollution, increase in the number of accidents, health problems, noise, among other problems (Bubel and Szymczyk, 2016; Valdes et al, 2016)
The following research problem is identified: how to seek and identify information about the use of System Dynamics (SD) in the development and implementation of urban policies focused on sustainable transportation? the objective of this paper is to carry out a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) to verify the current situation of scientific research on the application of SD in the analysis of sustainable transportation policies

Summary

Introduction

Intensive urban growth can lead to environmental, economic, social and traffic issues (Khakee, 2014; Hassan and Lee, 2015). The new travel pattern exacerbates the negative externalities in urban areas, resulting in frequent traffic congestion, air pollution, increase in the number of accidents, health problems, noise, among other problems (Bubel and Szymczyk, 2016; Valdes et al, 2016). In this context, it is noted that the rapid urbanization and motorization are threats to sustainable development (Pérez & Carillo, 2014). These policies must incorporate economic viability, environmental stability and social equity through the management of travel demand and efficient land use (Machado and Piccini, 2018; Litman, 2019)

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