https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/2062 2026-04-11T03:01:37Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/144584 Title: Walk the talk — understanding perceptions of walkability in Paola, Malta, as a key component of the 15-minute city Authors: Mifsud, Wendy Jo; Bajada, Therese; Scheiber, Sarah Abstract: The research investigates the socio-spatial dynamics of walkability in the urban context of Paola, Malta. Grounded in the concept of the 15-Minute City, the study set out to understand how people’s perceptions of proximity and walkability can inform spatial planning policies. Using Mapping for Change to map survey responses, data was collected to analyse participant perceptions regarding their walking experiences within Paola’s town centre. The research objectives were threefold: to identify factors that contribute to walking in dense urban environments, to explore how pedestrians’ perceptions of the environment can be used to shape spatial planning policies, and to assess the existing policy landscape concerning walkability. The study reveals that while the urban fabric of Paola supports active mobility, improvements in infrastructure, such as wider pavements and increased amenities like trees and benches, are necessary to enhance walkability. Additionally, the research highlights discrepancies between policy formulation and implementation, particularly in promoting sustainable mobility. The findings suggest that although national policies emphasize active travel, tangible action is less forthcoming. The results underscore the importance of engaging communities in planning processes and call for policies that foster safer, more attractive environments for pedestrians. Through this research, participants’ perceptions provided key indications about what can encourage active mobility and improve urban liveability, reinforcing the 15-Minute City framework for Malta. 2026-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/142044 Title: A data driven approach to understand patterns of children as victims of road injury crashes, case study : Malta Authors: Bajada, Therese; Chetcuti Zammit, Luana Abstract: In 2020, the European Union (EU) reported 336 child fatalities, 46% were car occupants, 13% were cyclists and 32% were pedestrians (European Commision Directorate General for Transport, 2022). Children are disproportionately affected by road crashes due to their physical and cognitive constraints (Savelsbergh et al., 2013). The predominant pattern of road fatalities among children across the EU peaks between 12pm and 8pm (European Commision Directorate General for Transport, 2022). 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/142043 Title: The digital nomad as a worker and a tourist Authors: Bajada, Therese; Satariano, Bernadine; Mariotti, Ilaria Abstract: Digital nomads are typically location-independent professionals who use digital technologies to sustain employment while travelling. They are often attracted to destinations with affordable living costs, pleasant climates, vibrant communities, and high-quality infrastructure such as coworking spaces and reliable internet (Chevtaeva & Denizci-Guillet, 2021; Vagena, 2021). Popular hubs include Bali, Chiang Mai, Lisbon, and Medellín, which combine cultural richness with relatively low living costs (Hart, 2015; Spinks, 2015). 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/140661 Title: Car dependence and the concept of lazy : understanding the impact of pedestrianisation on car dependency reduction in a European island Abstract: Across the globe, the shift towards cleaner, active modes of transport has been recognised as a crucial step in improving the quality of life of people. This transition in urban communities is essential to effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address health risks from sedentary lifestyles. The study examines the reliance on cars for short, walkable trips, focusing on Malta, a car-dependent small island state. Through the application of the Perceived Exertion Theory (PET) and Lazy User Theory (LUT), the research investigates how time, money, and perceived physical and mental effort can influence travel choices. A mixed-method approach provided insights into travel behaviours and the potential for street interventions to encourage active travel. The quantitative analyses primarily included multiple linear regression, mediation models and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling. The study’s findings reveal a significant relationship between perceived effort and car use for short trips, with mental effort and time identified as critical determinants. While respondents exhibited significant correlations between walking frequency, car use frequency, and distance thresholds, the mediating role of perceived exertion was only evident in the case of walking frequency. Notably, habitual car users in Malta were not affected by the perceived exertion associated with walking. However, walking frequency partially mediated the relationship between perceived exertion and distance thresholds, suggesting that individuals who walk more frequently are less averse to physical effort. On average, participants in the study reported a walking distance threshold of 1.3 km or approximately 16.93 minutes. These results align with the concept of "x-minute cities", which advocate for urban planning that enables access to daily needs and activities within 15–20 minutes of walking or cycling. This study highlights the complexity of transport mode choices, shaped by physical, psychological, and environmental factors. The qualitative data collection through stakeholder interviews, workshops and a virtual urban living lab were key to exploring the community’s response to pedestrian interventions and urban transformations. These approaches examined the barriers and facilitators to promoting active transport, with a digital platform serving as a participatory tool for gathering community feedback. The participants expressed a strong desire to engage in the planning process and contribute to shaping their urban environment. By incorporating community perspectives throughout the urban mobility interventions and experiments, their active participation can help address resistance to change and foster a sense of ownership in the community. The study emphasizes the need for multi-dimensional strategies to promote active travel in car-centric settings, such as enhancing pedestrian infrastructure, creating engaging public spaces, and offering reliable mobility alternatives. Using Malta as a case study, it highlights the unique travel dynamics of small, car-dependent island states and provides insights into sustainable mobility. By addressing barriers and leveraging motivations for short-distance active travel, the research offers policymakers guidance to reshape urban mobility to improve quality of life. Description: Ph.D.(Melit.) 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z