Is the choice of less-polluting modes of transport for non-work purposes affected by socio-demographic factors? Evidence from India

Abstract

Purpose

Using survey data of a developing country city, this study aims to examine the impact of different socio-demographic factors on the choice of less-polluting modes of transport for purposes other than work.

Design/methodology/approach

Stratified random sampling technique is employed and data on socio-demographic characteristics and mode of transport used is collected. Descriptive statistics complemented with a logit model of choice probabilities is implemented on the data obtained.

Findings

Majority of the population in the city uses motorized means of transportation irrespective of the socio-demographic changes existing among them. Women, the individuals belonging to the youngest age group, the least economically well-off group of people, the least educated and the non-working are the individuals more likely to use more of less-polluting modes and less of more-polluting modes for non-work purposes as compared to their counterparts.

Research limitations/implications

The study also calls for the development of an efficient and secured system of public transportation and non-motorized transportation in the city in such a way so as to neither hamper the goal of sustainability nor the goal of empowerment.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first time a comprehensive analysis of the influence of socio-demographic factors on choice of type of mode of transport is carried out in this region of the developing world. This analysis will facilitate the policy makers in catering to the transportation needs of different segments of the society.

Citation

Saigal, T., Vaish, A.K. and Rao, N.V.M. (2021), "Is the choice of less-polluting modes of transport for non-work purposes affected by socio-demographic factors? Evidence from India", Management of Environmental Quality, Vol. 32 No. 3, pp. 488-505. https://doi.org/10.1108/MEQ-09-2020-0212