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ECONOMIC SPACE AND ECONOMIC DISTANCE: RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN TRANSPORT AND SPATIAL STRUCTURES
Ning Yulin, Postgraduate Student
Supervisor: L.V. Grintsevich, Candidate of Economic Sciences, Associate Professor Belarusian National Technical University (Belarus, Minsk)
DOL10.24412/2500-1000-2024-6-3-27-31
Abstract. this work investigates the complex interaction between transportation networks and geographical structures, with a focus on the concepts of economic space and economic distance. It explores how transportation influences spatial organization and economic activity, emphasizing the delicate balance between accessibility and spatial development. By analyzing various dimensions of this relationship, the work aims to provide deeper insights into how transportation networks shape spatial structures and economic activities. It highlights the challenges and potential for attaining sustainable growth through efficient transportation planning and spatial development methods. The analysis aims to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between transportation infrastructure and geographical organization, ultimately providing significant insights on how to promote sustainable and balanced growth in urban and regional contexts.
Keywords: economic space, economic distance, transportation, spatial structures, accessibility, economic activities, spatial development.
The purpose of this essay explores how transportation networks shape economic activity and urban form. It examines the challenges of balancing efficient transport with sustainable development. By analyzing case studies and frameworks, the essay offers solutions for better integrating transport planning with urban development to achieve a more sustainable and economically vibrant future.
Introduction
Transportation shapes economies by influencing accessibility and "economic distance" (cost/time to move goods/people), impacting where economic activity happens. Efficient transportation networks can greatly decrease economic distance, thereby boosting trade, improving mobility, and encouraging regional integration.
Building transportation can hurt the environment (emissions, sprawl) and widen economic gaps if not planned well. Trade relies on transportation, but economic space itself is shaped by how people and goods move. [7] Balancing efficient transport with minimal environmental and social impact requires careful planning and policy [1].
Transportation infrastructure and spatial development are intricately linked, but
achieving a balance between efficient movement and sustainability presents challenges. These require comprehensive solutions Table 1.
Environmental Degradation
Transportation harms the environment through emissions and pollution, worsening climate change and health. Greener options like electric vehicles and better public transport are crucial [1].
- Urban Sprawl
Urban sprawl due to unchecked road building eats up natural areas, hurts wildlife, and strains resources [2].
- Socioeconomic Disparities
Transportation improvements can widen economic gaps by favoring wealthier areas. Limited public transit in disadvantaged communities restricts access to jobs and opportunities, trapping people in poverty [4].
- Traffic Congestion
Traffic congestion is a constant problem in many urban locations. Despite attempts to improve transportation infrastructure, demand for mobility frequently exceeds supply, resulting in congested roads, longer travel times, and higher stress for commuters. Traffic congestion not only lowers the quality of
life, but it also undermines economic output by producing delays and raising transportation expenses. It contributes to increased fuel usage and emissions, exacerbating the environmental effect. To address congestion, a multifaceted approach is required, which includes expanding public transportation alternatives, adopting congestion pricing, and supporting alternate modes of transportation such as cycling and walking.
One of the most difficult issues in the link between transportation and spatial architecture is reconciling environmental sustainabil-ity with economic development. Transportation infrastructure is crucial for economic development as it improves connections and facilitates trade and movement. However, extending transportation networks frequently has substantial environmental consequences, such as increased greenhouse gas emissions, pollution, and habitat loss [1]. This challenge derives from the requirement to encourage economic activities while limiting the environmental footprint of transportation networks.
Economic space and economic time, in their broadest sense, constitute the framework within which economic processes and phenomena occur. Economic space serves not only as a setting for economic actors and interactions but also shapes these interactions by providing specific economic forms and exerting influence on their development. This perspective redefines space as an interconnected network of processes rather than a mere "container" of objects.
- Integrated and Holistic Approach
Comprehensive transportation planning prioritizes long-term solutions, equal access, and smart tech (renewables, public transit, bike lanes) for sustainable mobility and equitable access. This can mitigate negative impacts and promote balanced spatial development.
Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels emphasized the intricate relationships between economic factors and other components of the social environment, which determine the role and position of individuals within society. They posited that the existing system of social relations, particularly production relations, has an objective nature independent of individual will and consciousness. This system dictates the position of an economic entity within the social division of labor and the portion of the social product it controls.
To overcome this, policymakers and planners must design sustainable transportation solutions that promote economic growth while maintaining environmental integrity. Strategies such as boosting public transportation, cycling, and walking, as well as implementing green technologies, are critical. These measures can help reduce environmental problems while also promoting economic activity. However, attaining this balance requires major investment, public backing, and a shift in transportation policies toward sus-tainability (Geels, 2012). The task is to build a transportation system that can support expansion while protecting environmental re-
Table 1. Key Issues in Transportation and Spatial Structures
Issue Description Reference
Environmental Degradation Increased greenhouse gas emissions and pollution from transportation infrastructure (Banister, 2008; Cervero, 2013)
Urban Sprawl Inefficient land use and expansion into natural landscapes due to transportation networks (Cervero, 2013)
Socioeconomic Inequality Unequal access to transportation services, benefiting urban areas more (Litman, 2021)
Traffic Congestion Persistent congestion despite infrastructure improvements, reducing quality of life (Rodrigue, Comtois, & Slack, 2017)
Sustainable Transportation Strategies for sustainable mobility solutions supporting economic growth (Geels, 2012)
sources for future generations. This includes not only technology improvements, but also policy reforms and public awareness efforts aimed at fostering a sustainable culture.
Urban sprawl is another big issue in terms of transportation and spatial architecture. The construction of major transportation infrastructure can cause cities to grow into formerly undeveloped areas, resulting in inefficient land use and the loss of natural landscapes [3]. Urban sprawl frequently results in greater traffic congestion, longer commutes, and higher infrastructure expenditures, creating substantial issues for urban planning and administration.
Smart planning that combines land use and transportation can fight sprawl. Building denser, mixed-use areas near transit reduces car dependence and environmental impact [4]. Smart planning faces resistance from developers, residents, and governments with different priorities. Making denser areas work requires considering housing costs and economic opportunities.
Socioeconomic inequality and equitable access to transportation services provide a key challenge in transportation planning. Transportation upgrades frequently benefit urban and affluent areas over rural and disadvantaged ones, creating economic disparities. This unequal access restricts possibilities for vulnerable populations and exacerbates the disparity between rich and destitute places.
Fair transport access is key to closing economic gaps. Investments in underserved areas and accessible options for all are crucial for growth and social equality [6]. However, equal access to transportation demands targeted regulations, resources, affordability, accessibility, and community planning.
Despite efforts to improve transportation infrastructure, traffic congestion continues to be a problem in many cities. The demand for mobility frequently outpaces the supply, resulting in congested roads, lengthier travel times, and higher commuter stress [8]. Congestion not only lowers the enjoyment of life, but it also affects economic output and increases pollution.
Addressing traffic congestion necessitates a diverse strategy that involves expanding public transportation, instituting congestion
pricing, and encouraging other forms of mobility. Smart transportation systems can also help improve traffic flow and reduce congestion. Solutions must be adapted to each urban area's individual setting, taking into account population density, economic activity, and existing transportation infrastructure. Furthermore, behavioral adjustments among commuters, such as flexible working hours or remote work, can help to reduce peak-hour congestion. To reduce congestion and increase urban mobility, incentives and infrastructure upgrades must be used to encourage the use of public transportation and non-motorized forms of transportation.
Integrated transportation planning creates networks that support growth by linking infrastructure to economic and development goals, optimizing land use, and improving connectivity while reducing environmental impact.
Sustainable transportation (public transit, cycling, walking) and green tech are key to lowering emissions, improving public health, and achieving climate goals.
Ensuring fair access to transportation services for all socioeconomic categories and geographic regions is critical for promoting inclusive growth and closing gaps. Policies should prioritize investment in disadvantaged areas and marginalized communities while also improving mobility options and promoting social fairness. Equitable transportation infrastructure promotes economic development and social cohesion by increasing access to jobs, education, and basic services.
Advanced technology, such as smart transportation systems and digital platforms, can help optimize transportation routes and operations. These advances help to reduce economic distance by increasing efficiency, safety, and minimizing congestion. Smart transportation technology allows for real-time data gathering and analysis, resulting in better decision-making and resource allocation in transportation planning and management.
Transportation systems should be constructed with resilience in mind, taking into account the possible effects to transportation infrastructure. [9] Resilient transportation planning is crucial for adapting to climate change. It involves designing infrastructure
that can withstand extreme weather events and disruptions.
Europe's high-speed rail network improves connectivity and boosts economies by enabling fast travel between major cities. This integrated planning promotes trade, tourism, and cultural exchange.
Singapore's extensive public transport system, with options like electric buses and efficient trains, balances mobility with low environmental impact. This promotes sustainable development by reducing traffic and pollution.
LA's Metro expansion tackles congestion and economic inequality by building new rail lines and bus routes. This improves connections, reduces traffic and pollution, and increases access to public transit, especially for disadvantaged areas.
Conclusion
Understanding the link between transportation and spatial structures is critical to foster-
ing economic growth and sustainable development. By addressing these issues and executing well-balanced policies, we can build transportation networks that promote both economic and spatial development, assuring a peaceful and prosperous future. Integrating transportation planning with land use and economic development, while emphasizing sustainability and fairness, can contribute to a balanced and sustainable spatial organization. This entails integrating transportation infrastructure with larger spatial goals, facilitating coherent growth while reducing environmental effect. Prioritizing sustainability and fairness in transportation design can help to eliminate social inequalities and environmental degradation, thereby improving overall quality of life. Effective transportation systems provide connectivity, mobility, and access to opportunities, while also encouraging economic exchanges and promoting regional integration.
References
1. Banister, D. The sustainable mobility paradigm // Transport Policy. - 2008. - № 15 (2). -P. 73-80.
2. Cervero, R. Transport Infrastructure and Global Competitiveness: Balancing Mobility and Livability // Journal of the American Planning Association. - 2013. - № 79(3). - P. 315-324.
3. Geels, F.W. A socio-technical analysis of low-carbon transitions: introducing the multilevel perspective into transport studies. Journal of Transport Geography. - 2012. - № 24. -P. 471-482.
4. Litman, T. Evaluating transportation equity: Guidance for incorporating distributional impacts in transportation planning // Victoria Transport Policy Institute. - 2021.
5. Phang, S.Y. Strategic development of airport and rail infrastructure: The case of Singapore // Transport Policy. - 2003. - № 10 (1). - P. 27-33.
6. Pucher, J. & B.R. (2012). City cycling. MIT Press.
7. Smith, A. (1776). An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations.
8. Taylor, B. D, & F. C. N. Y. (2003). The factors influencing transit ridership: A review and analysis of the ridership literature. UCLA: University of California Transportation Center.
9. Vickerman, R. High-speed rail and regional development: The case of intermediate stations // Journal of Transport Geography. - 2018. - № 42. - P. 157-165.
ЭКОНОМИЧЕСКОЕ ПРОСТРАНСТВО И ЭКОНОМИЧЕСКАЯ ДИСТАНЦИЯ: ВЗАИМОСВЯЗЬ ТРАНСПОРТА И ПРОСТРАНСТВЕННЫХ СТРУКТУР
Нин Юйлинь, аспирант
Научный руководитель: Л.В. Гринцевич, канд. экон. наук, доцент Белорусский национальный технический университет (Белоруссия, г. Минск)
Аннотация. Данная работа исследует сложное взаимодействие между транспортными сетями и географическими структурами с упором на концепции экономического пространства и экономической дистанции. В нем исследуется, как транспорт влияет на пространственную организацию и экономическую деятельность, подчеркивая хрупкий баланс между доступностью и пространственным развитием. Анализируя различные аспекты этих взаимоотношений, работа направлена на более глубокое понимание того, как транспортные сети формируют пространственные структуры и экономическую деятельность. В нем подчеркиваются проблемы и потенциал достижения устойчивого роста посредством эффективного транспортного планирования и методов пространственного развития. Целью анализа является обеспечение более полного понимания взаимосвязи между транспортной инфраструктурой и географической организацией, что в конечном итоге даст существенное представление о том, как способствовать устойчивому и сбалансированному росту в городском и региональном контексте.
Ключевые слова: экономическое пространство, экономическая дистанция, транспорт, пространственные структуры, доступность, экономическая деятельность, пространственное развитие.
