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A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Sustainable Transportation".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 April 2025) | Viewed by 24033

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Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Sangho Choo

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Guest Editor

Department of Urban Design & Planning, Hongik University, Seoul 04066, Republic of Korea
Interests: travel behavior; transportation planning; urban public transport; mobility as a service; big data analysis; discrete choice modeling
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The increasing concern about environmental degradation and the need to reduce greenhouse gas emissions has led to a growing interest in sustainable public transportation systems. With more and more people living in cities, public transportation systems play a crucial role in providing an efficient, reliable, and environmentally friendly means of transportation. A sustainable public transportation system can not only reduce carbon emissions but also provide economic and social benefits, such as reduced traffic congestion, improved air quality, and enhanced accessibility to employment and education opportunities. In recent years, there have been significant advancements in the field of public transportation, and we aim to explore these developments further through this publication.

This Special Issue invites papers related to sustainable public transportation systems with respect to behavior, safety, and planning. We encourage new methodologies and various applications of data analysis for sustainable public transportation systems as well as multimodal transport systems in urban areas.

In this Special Issue, original research articles and review articles considering public transportation systems are welcome. Research areas may include (but not limited to) the following:

Travel behavior of public transportation;
Public transportation demand forecasting;
Sustainable public transportation system;
User satisfaction and perception;
Safety and security measures;
Integrated and multimodal transport system;
Mobility as a service;
First/last miles for public transportation network;
Emerging technology and trends.

Prof. Dr. Sangho Choo
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

public transportation system
public transportation planning
travel behavior
multimodal transport system
safety
mobility as a service

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Published Papers (11 papers)

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Research

16 pages, 2854 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluating the Level of Balance Between Demand and Supply at Bus Stops Using Smartcard Data

by Shin-Hyung Cho

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3278; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073278 - 7 Apr 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 480

Abstract

The efficient operation of urban bus systems necessitates the alignment of service supply with passenger demand. An inadequate supply of services results in passenger inconvenience, whereas excessive supply leads to inefficiencies for operators. This study introduces a performance measure to evaluate the equilibrium between demand and supply at bus stops. The methodology involves deriving cumulative distribution functions (CDFs) of passenger waiting times during peak (High Ridership Period, HRP) and non-peak hours (Non-High Ridership Period, NHRP) using smartcard data. The maximum vertical distance between these CDFs, along with their definite integrals, serves as the basis for the performance metric. Using a reference threshold of 0.16, bus stops are categorized into three groups: those experiencing excessive demand, those operating in a balanced state, and those with insufficient supply during non-peak hours. This method was applied to 1785 bus stops in Seoul, demonstrating that balanced stops exhibited the shortest average waiting times. The analysis also revealed that stops with excessive demand had significantly higher ridership, whereas stops with lower supply showed ambiguous boundaries between the HRP and NHRP. The proposed performance measure offers a valuable tool for assessing and enhancing the service levels of public transport systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Sustainable Public Transportation System: Behavior, Safety and Planning)

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21 pages, 3081 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Accessibility Dilemma in Metro Stations: An Experimental Pilot Study Based on Passengers’ Emotional Experiences

by Daniel Vega, Sebastian Seriani, Álvaro Peña, Vinicius Minatogawa, Vicente Aprigliano, Bernardo Arredondo, Iván Bastías, Fernando Rodriguez-Rodriguez, Cristian Muñoz and Rodrigo Soto

Sustainability 2025, 17(7), 3064; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17073064 - 30 Mar 2025

Viewed by 820

Abstract

This study explores the passengers’ accessibility dilemma in Valparaíso, Chile, through field observations and laboratory experiments. The aim is to investigate the accessibility in metro stations based on the users’ emotional experience. Perceptions were reported through the emotions of passengers according to a circumplex psychological model and an accessibility ranking. Passengers reported their emotions (e.g., stress, sadness, relaxation, and happiness) during different trip moments. Results indicate that rearranging train seats parallel to movement creates a more spacious aisle, enhancing mobility and evoking positive emotions such as happiness. However, an unexpected rise in sadness suggests that social dynamics may influence emotional responses, warranting further investigation. Overcrowding increases stress and sadness, emphasizing the need for capacity management to improve passengers’ emotional experiences. Field observations reveal that early journey stages, such as walking to the station or waiting on the platform, are associated with unpleasant experiences due to poor infrastructure and accessibility barriers. In contrast, train rides foster more positive emotions, credited to better accessibility onboard. Passenger dissatisfaction arises from issues such as elevator malfunctions, inconsistent train schedules, and inadequate station accessibility. This study could help to understand passenger behavior when the accessibility conditions of metro stations and their surroundings are changed. Further studies will expand the concept of emotions by considering social and psychological factors and explore different types of stations and their surroundings considering a larger sample size in laboratory experiments and field studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Sustainable Public Transportation System: Behavior, Safety and Planning)

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25 pages, 11884 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving the Door-To-Door Customer Journey for a National Public Transport Company

by Fintan Kennedy, P.J. White and Hilary Dempsey

Sustainability 2024, 16(20), 8741; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16208741 - 10 Oct 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2032

Abstract

(1) Background: Public transport has a vital role to play in creating sustainable, accessible societies. Accessible and inclusive, door-to-door public transport systems with low barriers to use benefit everyone, increasing the mobility of citizens and improving independence. As the industry strives towards multi-modal and Mobility as a Service (MaaS) concepts, there is a need to delve deep into the needs and perceptions of transport user’s door-to-door journeys to find ways to improve. Accordingly, in order to increase the sustainability of MaaS, improving accessibility and understanding service user perceptions are of utmost importance. However, there is a scarcity of research within national transport services to determine unmet user needs to increase the accessibility and autonomy of door-to-door journeys. This research aims to investigate if it is possible to improve the door-to-door journey experience for public transport travellers, increasing the accessibility and the perception of autonomy via technology, and by doing so, providing a more sustainable alternative to road transport. It focuses on understanding service users of Ireland’s National Rail service, Irish Rail, to create key improvements in interactive systems. (2) Methods: The study applies a user-centred mixed-methods methodology using surveys (N = 316) and co-design workshops (four workshops N = 15). The research collected deep insights into the mindsets and needs of service users, showing the potential to improve this door-to-the-door customer journey. Key improvements for interactive systems were outlined. Experience maps were designed, leading to a Conceptual Design for a travel assistant to aid the service user throughout the door-to-door journey. (3) Results: Travellers’ autonomy and the sense of freedom they experience can be improved, mainly if their needs across the complete door-to-door customer journey are supported. Highlighted areas for action include information, accessibility, personal security, ticketing, comfort, facilities, and anxiety. (4) Conclusions: This research reiterates the need for national transport and MaaS providers to prioritise service users’ perspectives when developing sustainable services. Co-designing is recommended as a means of achieving this. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Sustainable Public Transportation System: Behavior, Safety and Planning)

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21 pages, 18047 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of Public Transportation System through Social Network Analysis Approach

by Jahun Koo, Gyeongjae Lee, Sujae Kim and Sangho Choo

Sustainability 2024, 16(16), 7212; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16167212 - 22 Aug 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2126

Abstract

In response to the phenomenon of global warming, the transportation sector aims to mitigate carbon emissions by promoting the use of public transportation. This study employs social network analysis to propose effective improvements to the public transportation system, focusing on bus stop locations and route networks in Hwaseong City, South Korea. Two networks were constructed based on existing public transportation routes and usage data at each bus stop. The findings and implications are as follows: Analyzing the public transportation network from a network perspective can effectively contribute to improving the public transportation network route system. By evaluating centrality and brokerage for the existing routes, it is possible to identify inefficient routes and develop efficient route modification plans. Based on actual usage patterns, excessive bus supply and unnecessary bus stop locations can be identified, allowing for the establishment of appropriate operational plans. This can lead to improved operational efficiency and cost savings. Rational route design and operational planning can enhance public transportation services and promote increased use of public transportation. Ultimately, this contributes to sustainable development through carbon reduction in the transportation sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Sustainable Public Transportation System: Behavior, Safety and Planning)

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18 pages, 4487 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Stay Two-Meters Apart: Assessing the Impact of COVID-19 Social Distancing Protocols on Subway Station Walkway Performance

by Sheng Dong, Afaq Khattak, Feng Chen and Feifei Xu

Sustainability 2024, 16(16), 6858; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16166858 - 9 Aug 2024

Viewed by 1215

Abstract

Ensuring passenger safety in public transportation systems is a critical challenge, especially under pandemic conditions that necessitate adherence to social distancing measures, such as maintaining a two-meter distance between individuals. This research focuses on evaluating the performance of subway station walkways when subjected to these distancing requirements. To conduct this analysis, a discrete-event simulation (DES) approach was implemented. This technique models the movement and interaction of passengers within station walkways as discrete events, allowing for a detailed assessment of system performance under various conditions. Key performance indicators, including the average area occupied by each passenger, the time spent on the walkway (dwell time), and the likelihood of congestion (blocking probability), were evaluated. The DES considered varying passenger arrival patterns by utilizing phase-type (PH) distribution and walkway dimensions to reflect a range of real-world scenarios. The operational outcomes under normal conditions were compared with those observed under pandemic-induced social distancing protocols. Through this comparison, insights were provided into how enforced distancing impacts walkway efficiency, and we identified potential bottlenecks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Sustainable Public Transportation System: Behavior, Safety and Planning)

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33 pages, 6274 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Navigating Passenger Satisfaction: A Structural Equation Modeling–Artificial Neural Network Approach to Intercity Bus Services

by Shaghayegh Rahnama, Adriana Cortez and Andres Monzon

Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4363; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114363 - 22 May 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3476

Abstract

The phenomenon of passenger satisfaction is an important issue for public transport services and transport companies. Clarifying the relationship between influencing attributes and passenger satisfaction significantly improves service satisfaction. This study examines passenger satisfaction with intercity buses and, in particular, the role of digital information channels (websites and mobile apps) in promoting sustainable travel choices on the Madrid–Bilbao route. This study analyzed data from 459 passengers to identify the key factors influencing the bus choice for intercity bus travel. Punctuality, safety, and ticket price are the most important determinants. We use a combined structural equation modeling (SEM) and artificial neural network (ANN) approach to capture the intricate relationships between service attributes and information channels. The results show that information channels, travel experience, and ticket prices significantly impact passenger satisfaction, which bus operators should improve. Also, inserting the SEM result as input for the ANN showed that ticket price is the most significant predictor of satisfaction, followed by information channels (84%) and travel experience (65%). This approach provides valuable insights for improving the passenger experience. This study emphasizes integrating digital transformation strategies into public transport systems to promote sustainable mobility goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Sustainable Public Transportation System: Behavior, Safety and Planning)

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19 pages, 3517 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Integrative Investigation of Travel Satisfaction, Streetscape Perception, and Mental Health in Urban Environments

by Pawinee Iamtrakul, Sararad Chayphong and Yoshitsugu Hayashi

Sustainability 2024, 16(9), 3526; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16093526 - 23 Apr 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2132

Abstract

A significant connection exists between mental health, particularly depression, and travel. This study aims to explore the relationship between travel satisfaction, perception of the streetscape, and depression by comparing non-older adults and older adults. Subjective well-being serves as a concept for measuring mental health derived from travel satisfaction and perception of the streetscape across age groups. Additionally, the Geriatric Depression Scale (15-item GDS) was employed to specifically assess depression. The survey was conducted among respondents residing in the Bangkok Metropolitan Region (BMR) with a sample size of 3600 which is segmented into three age groups for the study model: early adulthood (18–34 years), middle adulthood (35–59 years), and later maturity (60 years and above). Multiple regression analysis was employed to investigate the relationship between travel satisfaction, perception of the streetscape, and mental health. The results suggest that both travel satisfaction and perception of the streetscape have a statistically significant impact on mental health, particularly in relation to depression. Additionally, the analysis highlights variations in stressors among different age cohorts. Particularly noteworthy is the finding that ease of access to the city center and openness of the streetscape emerged as statistically significant factors influencing depression within the later maturity age group. Conclusively, the study reveals the variations in stressors across diverse age cohorts, highlighting the imperative for tailored interventions to mitigate mental health concerns throughout different life stages. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Sustainable Public Transportation System: Behavior, Safety and Planning)

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21 pages, 162524 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unlocking Urban Accessibility: Proximity Analysis in Bangkok, Thailand’s Mega City

by Pawinee Iamtrakul, Apinya Padon, Sararad Chayphong and Yoshitsugu Hayashi

Sustainability 2024, 16(8), 3137; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16083137 - 9 Apr 2024

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3468

Abstract

Accessibility serves as the fundamental link for mode shifts, enabling access to activity areas and facilitating connections to other forms of travel. However, navigating the transportation network in urban areas of Bangkok, Thailand, reveals persistent inconveniences, discomfort, and safety concerns, thereby failing to adequately meet the needs of users. This study aims to examine urban accessibility, focusing on multi-travel connections to amenities and public transport. It focuses on understanding how the level of engagement of road users in social activities contributes to well-being by addressing proximity access through a multidisciplinary approach aimed at enhancing accessibility and integrating the built environment. The comprehensive and inclusive Accessibility by Proximity Index (API) is proposed as a tool to evaluate the level of access to essential services and activities for residents. Additionally, this study acknowledges the impact of the physical and utilization characteristics of urban space and active trajectories by considering various travel needs and daily route patterns. Consequently, the API can inform the development of planning and urban design strategies aimed at enhancing walkability and cycling as non-motorization infrastructures, thereby improving accessibility through active modes of transportation. It was observed that areas with a higher concentration of urban amenities exhibit greater accessibility by walking, cycling, and public transport, particularly in inner-city areas. Thus, envisioning a more sustainable and inclusive city with adequate development of public transportation access is essential in urban areas, prompting policy-level initiatives to enhance the environment and elevate the overall commuting experience. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Sustainable Public Transportation System: Behavior, Safety and Planning)

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18 pages, 42200 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Spatial Accessibility to Urban Activities Based on the Transit-Oriented Development Concept in Pathum Thani, Thailand

by Pawinee Iamtrakul and Sararad Chayphong

Sustainability 2024, 16(5), 2195; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16052195 - 6 Mar 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2764

Abstract

Transit-oriented development (TOD) serves as a model for sustainable urban planning, integrating land use and transport planning. Successful implementation varies across specific geographic locations and has yet to be fully realized in the suburban areas of Thailand. This study empirically examined and searched for understanding of the enhanced accessibility to urban activities through the TOD concept by focusing on bus stops and rail mass transit. The study utilized a network buffer zone approach around transit areas as TOD measurement units, examining distances of 500 m, 1000 m, and 2000 m. Spatial analysis was applied to examine and understand the enhanced accessibility to urban activities through TOD by using network analysis, Getis-Ord Gi* hotspot analysis, and bivariate local Moran’s I. The results revealed that this area still has limited access to activities via public transport, particularly in the areas where activities are concentrated, especially in commercial, mixed-use, and residential zones. However, upon examining the relationship between access distance and the intensity of land use activities, it became apparent that within the network buffer zone encircling the transit areas, designated as transit-oriented development (TOD) measurement units, there exists a notable concentration and diversity of land use activities. Specifically, enhanced accessibility to the transportation system corresponded to increased activity density. Nonetheless, this correlation was predominantly observed at stations situated in more central areas, whereas stations located at greater distances exhibited a lower intensity and diversity of activities within the TOD zone. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Sustainable Public Transportation System: Behavior, Safety and Planning)

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14 pages, 2769 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Strategies for Improving the Sustainability of Fare-Free Policy for the Elderly through Preferences by Travel Modes

by Jaewoong Yun

Sustainability 2023, 15(20), 14678; https://doi.org/10.3390/su152014678 - 10 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1528

Abstract

As Korea provides a fare-free policy for subways only, there are objections to geographical equity, and the need to expand it to the entire public transportation system is being discussed. However, expanding policy scope in line with an aging society will soon pose sustainability problems. Hence, policy changes, similar to that of countries that provide fare-discount policies for the elderly or apply different discount rates for each travel mode, are needed. However, providing the same policies for all cities may differ from the benefits the target group wants. Thus, this study investigated the preference of the elderly living in major cities in South Korea for discount policies by travel mode. The study aims to provide a strategy for choosing the travel mode that should provide discount policies by combining regional and individual attributes. The latent class model is employed to classify stated preference data collected from the survey. The estimation results show a significant preference heterogeneity depending on the level of subway supply by region, and a policy focused on subways would be more reasonable in cities with sufficient subway infrastructure. In addition, providing additional bus discount policies only for trunk lines will help improve sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Sustainable Public Transportation System: Behavior, Safety and Planning)

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24 pages, 1871 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Public Transport Modeling for Commuting in Cities with Different Development Levels Using Extended Theory of Planned Behavior

by Bircan Arslannur and Ahmet Tortum

Sustainability 2023, 15(15), 11931; https://doi.org/10.3390/su151511931 - 3 Aug 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2446

Abstract

Reducing the use of private vehicles and promoting public transportation (PT) have always been the primary policy objectives of transport authorities. This study aims to model the factors affecting intentions and behaviors of employees to use PT for their commutes by creating an extended theory of planned behavior (ETPB). The ETPB model’s applicability was evaluated using the Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM) technique on a total of 2048 employees in three distinct cities. Then, the Multigroup analysis (MGA) method was used to compare various cities, and demographic variables such as age, education, gender, household income, and walking time to nearest PT stop. The analysis revealed that attitude, perceived norm, and personal agency have a statistically positive influence on employees’ intention to use PT. Moreover, behavioral capability, intention, and habit have a positive effect on PT use, whereas environmental constraints have a negative effect. The results of the MGA analysis revealed significant differences between regions, particularly in terms of environmental factors, intention, and habit. Similarly, the article describes disparities that have emerged according to other demographic variables. The findings imply that interventions by decision makers have the potential to alter the mode of transportation chosen for commuting. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Sustainable Public Transportation System: Behavior, Safety and Planning)

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