Green mobility and well-being

Abstract

In recent years, efforts to promote alternative and greener modes of transport have been aimed at boosting sustainable economic growth. The question of mode choice calls for an analysis of how different modes of transport relate to the well-being of users. We use the UK Time Use Survey (UKTUS) from 2014 to 2015, and examine data on self-reported enjoyment during travel, as a measure of experienced well-being. We estimate Random Effects regressions for each travel category, finding that, in comparison to driving by car, active transport is related to higher levels of well-being during travel, while using public transport is associated with lower levels of well-being in certain trips. The results show that active transport is related to higher levels of well-being on a daily basis and across different travel purposes. Our evidence suggests a need to develop strategies to effectively promote mobility by active modes of transport, improving the daily experience of public transport users.