Sustainable mobility explained by social interactions and perceptions of the built environment

Abstract This paper aims to explain the influence of social interactions and perceptions of the built environment on the use of sustainable transport modes. This study is being developed within the framework of MINERVA project. For this project, a web-based survey was developed to collect information regarding values, attitudes and perceptions, social network characteristics, socio-demographics and a two-day activity-travel diary. This paper presents data collection steps, methodology and preliminary results. Descriptive analysis, including frequency distributions, explanatory and confirmatory factor analysis, have been conducted to find potential relations among the studied variables. Main findings suggest that positive perceptions of the built environment are related with highest walking and cycling splits, while less influence is found with public transport. A higher sustainable mobility might be also influenced by the composition of the social network and its characteristics. The presence of aged persons, men and household members in the social network is associated with a higher use of private vehicle.