Balancing economic, social and environmental value in transport infrastructure business models

Kalyviotis, Nikolaos (2022). Balancing economic, social and environmental value in transport infrastructure business models. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

There is ongoing debate about the value of the benefits of infrastructure systems (specifically those of energy, water and wastewater, transport, waste, and communications) and how to prioritize infrastructure investments to encompass considerations of social, economic and environmental wellbeing. The use of the term ‘infrastructure system’ is related to interdependencies. Infrastructure systems operating in different countries and cities are interrelated in different ways, but all have a strong relationship to ‘transport’ – there is a cost and a utility associated with movement. Infrastructure systems are ultimately created to serve individuals, who place a value on them. In order to explore all forms of value realisation – the foundation for what are commonly termed business models – the relationship between an individual and the transport system needs to be established. The hypothesis being tested in this thesis is that it is possible to identify both the full range of value and interdependencies required, and hence to establish robust alternative business models, for transport infrastructure interdependencies management that incorporate considerations of social, economic and environmental wellbeing, noting that the interdependencies lie with the other four national infrastructure sectors in the UK (see above).

Different research methods were used for each type of value. Economic value was studied using the research methodology of ‘networks and cohorts’ on input-output tables and applying linear analysis to the data. Social value was studied by collecting data with a structured interview process and analysing this with the appropriate statistical methods. Environmental value was taken from previous studies which linked it with the economic value (demand) of the input-output tables. Economic and environmental value interdependencies were analysed through Pearson’s correlation coefficient of secondary data, while social value interdependencies were analysed through statistical analysis of primary data.

The new business model captures a wide range of the values of social, economic and environmental considerations on infrastructure systems. The new business model permits better understanding of how the overall system works by policy makers and hence better decisions on which type of infrastructure to focus on if they want to add value to society.

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):

Supervisor(s)	Email	ORCID
Rogers, Christopher	UNSPECIFIED	orcid.org/0000-0002-1693-1999
Tight, Miles	UNSPECIFIED	orcid.org/0000-0002-6635-8721
Hewings, Geoffrey J. D.	UNSPECIFIED	orcid.org/0000-0003-2560-3273