Evaluation of Sustainable Development Policies in Urban Transportation by Using a System Dynamics Model (Case Study: Mashhad, Iran) Print

Urban transport development has resulted in a massive increase in rate of accidents, more consumption of fuels and emission of dangerous pollutants, and consequently considerable costs. These issues alongside the increasing needs to transportation services a rise the necessity for gaining sustainable transportation as one of the principle solutions for development. However, recognition and prioritization of sustainable transportation policies are very important. In this article we tried to model Mashhad transportation by using a system dynamics framework. Then, 20 scenarios have been introduced for sustainable urban transportation appraisal in 5 policy groups for 20 years. In this evaluation scheme, carpooling, reducing old vehicles and improvement of public transportation have identified as the most effective factors on sustainability indicators and is able to minimize the negative consequences of transportation in the study horizon. It seems that suggestions of the current paper may be useful for decision-makers in achieving sustainable urban transportation.