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Study: health and societal benefits of living without a car
Last reviewed: 02.07.2025
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Taking part in a three-week 'car-free living' challenge improved the health and wellbeing of Oxford residents, according to research carried out by the University of Bath's Centre for Climate Change and Social Transformation (CAST) in partnership with climate charity Possible and Low Carbon Oxford North (LCON).
After going car-free for three weeks, 10 out of 12 Oxford participants said they planned to continue reducing their car use after the project ended.
Key findings of the study:
- Everyday transport emissions were reduced by an average of 53%, with some participants seeing their transport-related CO2 emissions virtually disappear.
- 10 out of 12 participants reported that they intended to permanently reduce their car use as a result of participating in the project.
- Three out of 12 participants reported planning major lifestyle changes, such as giving up their car altogether.
- After the project, many participants reported improved health and well-being, a renewed connection with the environment and people, and a sense of satisfaction from contributing to reducing air pollution and climate change. Some participants also reported saving money.
The project highlights the importance of support – accessible information about mobility options and peer support – in encouraging people to make changes.
The report outlines a number of barriers to car-free living that the group of participants faced. It makes a number of recommendations for national and local governments, including providing reliable, accessible and convenient public transport, investing in safe cycling infrastructure across the city and making appropriate provision for residents with limited mobility.
Researchers' comments
Dr Claire Holohan, co-researcher at CAST, said: "Transport is the UK's largest emissions sector and cars make a significant contribution to overall emissions. Moving away from cars to public transport and active travel is one of the most effective ways to reduce emissions.
"This experiment allows people to experience life without a car while still carrying out all their normal activities. The project shows many benefits, including a sense of connection with the outside world, more social opportunities, more time for leisure and more autonomy. It also illustrates the scale of change needed in society to move to car-free living.
"There is a need to improve local infrastructure for active travel, provide accessible and convenient public transport services, and provide comprehensive support such as training, financial support and repair services for those just starting to travel without a car."