Longer Red Lights Could Push Commuters Toward Sustainable Transport, Study Suggests Researchers propose increasing red-light durations for cars to encourage walking, cycling, and public transport use, challenging traditional traffic management strategies. Commuters may soon face longer waits at traffic lights as researchers advocate for changes to encourage sustainable transport. A study by the University of Parma in Italy suggests that increasing red-light durations for cars could push drivers toward walking, cycling, or public transport. The team found that even a 10-20% reduction in green-light time for cars could significantly influence commuter behavior without requiring costly infrastructure upgrades. Their simulations revealed that prioritizing buses, cyclists, and pedestrians with extended green-light phases could make these alternatives more appealing. The researchers argue that current traffic light systems often favor cars, leading to increased congestion as more drivers are attracted to the roads. By adjusting signal timings, cities could promote greener mobility without major investments.In the UK, where cars typically wait 60-90 seconds for a light change, a 20% reduction in green time could add up to 18 seconds of waiting per intersection. While this may frustrate drivers, the study suggests it could drive a shift toward more sustainable options.Previous research by the RAC found that nearly half of drivers become irritated if the car ahead doesn’t move within three seconds of a light turning green, highlighting the emotional impact of even minor delays. The study, published in Royal Society Open Science, concludes that traffic lights are not just flow regulators but powerful tools for shaping urban mobility. The findings challenge the assumption that car-friendly signal timings reduce congestion, instead suggesting they may worsen it by encouraging more driving.The researchers propose that cities can create healthier, more efficient transport systems simply by tweaking traffic light cycles. Meanwhile, a separate study warns that hybrid cars pose higher risks due to their quiet engines and high urban usage, with death rates three times higher than petrol vehicles, particularly among younger drivers. RAC spokesman Simon Williams noted that slow-moving drivers at green lights exacerbate traffic jams and pollution, emphasizing the need for smoother traffic flow.The research underscores the complex interplay between traffic management, commuter behavior, and environmental sustainability