Keynote Speakers

Maria Attard is the Head of Geography and Director of the Institute for Climate Change and Sustainable Development at the University of Malta. She is a prominent figure in urban transport, specializing in policy and project implementation. Prof. Attard has been pivotal in advancing major transport projects in Malta, including road pricing, park-and-ride schemes, and pedestrianization initiatives in Valletta. She completed her PhD at University College London, focusing on urban transport, planning, and policy, and has co-edited significant works such as Sustainable Urban Transport and Transport and Pandemic Experiences. As Chair of NECTAR’s (Network on European Communications and Transport Activities Research) and a steering committee member of the World Conference on Transport Research, she plays a vital role in shaping international transport research. Prof. Attard is also co-editor-in-chief of the Research in Transportation Business and Management journal and Associate Editor of Case Studies on Transport Policy, and serves on editorial boards of several other international journals. Her extensive publications cover topics like transport planning, policy, road safety, GIS education, and mobility justice. Her work in transport research and policy has been instrumental in promoting sustainable urban mobility and enhancing transportation systems in Malta and beyond. Homepage

Keynote Title

What affects walking? Designing action research to engage citizens

Abstract

There is ample evidence to suggest that policies aimed at increasing the modal share of walking and cycling are effective at reducing the environmental and health burdens of our transport systems. There is however a gap between the outputs of research and what happens on the ground, with policies and measures aimed to continue providing for the private car, rather than infrastructure for those engaging in active travel. One concern that is frequently observed is the focus on infrastructure alone as a means of engaging in walking as a travel mode. Metrics and indices have been developed over time to measure walkability and to propose interventions. However the perception of pedestrians and cyclists vary across geographies, cities and even users. Action research and the use of citizen science methodologies allow for a hands-on approach to study the elements that affect walking. This keynote lecture aims to highlight the potential and the opportunities offered by action research and participatory approaches to instigate the necessary behaviour change towards more sustainable mobility and more livable places. Examples of research that engages with the community will demonstrate the challenges but also the benefits of mutual learning from and by the community and researchers. In this manner, research is extended to the community, and if successful change can occur from bottom-up rather than top-down.