Search Results (113)

Fine particulate matter (PM_2.5) exposure in public transport microenvironments has important implications for commuter health, yet concentration-based assessments may not adequately reflect the dose actually inhaled by passengers. This study quantified dynamic PM_2.5 inhaled doses in Taiyuan, China, using 1 Hz portable monitoring and matched travel surveys across 19 bus and metro routes during summer and winter 2025. After data screening, 1103 valid commuter samples were retained. We combined dose estimation with DML, XGBoost-SHAP, SEM, and Random Forest analysis to examine adjusted associations, explore potential nonlinear patterns, and characterize behavioral responses. Trip-averaged PM_2.5 concentrations exceeded the WHO 24 h guideline on most monitored routes when interpreted as a health-based reference benchmark for short commuting exposures rather than as a direct regulatory exceedance metric. More importantly, a clear concentration-dose decoupling pattern was observed: 6.6% of trips fell into a low-concentration but high-dose category, indicating that prolonged in-vehicle exposure could substantially elevate inhaled dose even when PM_2.5 concentrations remained below the sample median. The mean inhaled dose in the longer observed-duration group (top 20% by observed in-vehicle duration) reached 612.26 ± 412.21 μg, which was 7.2 times that of the remaining trips (84.87 ± 115.71 μg). DML results showed that inhaled dose, rather than PM_2.5 concentration alone, was significantly associated with psychological distress. SHAP analysis suggested an exploratory threshold-like pattern at approximately 300 μg per trip, above which health-risk attribution increased rapidly. SEM results indicated that inhaled dose was associated with higher self-reported somatic burden, whereas PM_2.5 concentration mainly influenced health indirectly through risk perception. These findings suggest that public transport exposure assessment should move beyond static concentration metrics and incorporate dynamic inhaled dose to better identify high-risk commuting scenarios and support more targeted health-oriented transit management. Full article

This cross-sectional study explored whether the relationship between adolescents’ physical activity and related factors (such as personal and social factors, and parental safety concern) differed according to adolescents’ levels of access to play spaces. Data from Wave 3 of the Growing Up in Ireland (GUI) national longitudinal study, a nationally representative sample of 5212 adolescents aged 17–18 years, was analyzed. Key study variables included adolescents’ physical activity, personal factors (gender, health status, parents’ education and physical activity levels, and active commuting), social factors (number of friends, family support), and parental safety concerns (perceived safety of walking/playing and neighborhood safety). Two structural equation models (SEMs) were employed to compare relationships among physical activity and related factors for adolescents with high and low access to play spaces. Results showed that adolescents living in areas with high access to play spaces reported significantly higher levels of physical activity. Parents’ levels of education and the number of friends available for play had significant impacts on adolescents’ physical activity, regardless of access to play spaces. However, parental perception of the safety of walking and playing was only significant for adolescents with low access to parks. The associations between related factors and adolescents’ levels of physical activity differed for those with high and low access to play spaces, suggesting that interventions promoting adolescents’ physical activity may not yield equal results across these groups. A key limitation of this study is its cross-sectional design and reliance on self-reported measures, which preclude causal inference. Full article

Background: Since World War II, the number of motorized vehicles has increased dramatically. Yet, few studies have evaluated how perceptions of single and multiple motorized traffic variables, in different combinations, influence pedestrians’ appraisals of the route environment in relation to whether it facilitates or deters walking. We have previously illuminated this in an inner urban area of a metropolitan region. This study aims to scrutinize these matters in the suburban–rural parts of the same metropolitan area. For comparative reasons, we use the same methods as used for the inner urban area. Our hypothesis is that these kinds of perceptions, to some extent, may be context-specific. Methods: Relations between pedestrians’ perceptions of motorized traffic variables (flow and speeds of motor vehicles, noise, and exhaust fumes) and combinations of them, as well as if appraisals of route environments hinder–stimulate walking and are unsafe–safe for reasons of traffic, have been evaluated. This was studied in the suburban and rural areas of Greater Stockholm, Sweden. The pedestrians (n = 233) rated their route environment with the Active Commuting Route Environment Scale (ACRES). Correlation, multiple regression, and mediation analyses were used to study the relationships. Results: The regression analyses showed that noise was the primary negative predictor variable in relation to hindering–stimulating walking. With respect to the other outcome, unsafe–safe traffic, none of the variables had a significant relation. The mediation analyses showed that (1) vehicle speed had an indirect effect on unsafe–safe traffic via noise, (2) both vehicle speed and vehicle flow had, via noise, indirect effects on hinders–stimulates walking, and (3) vehicle speed had, via vehicle flow, an indirect effect on noise and exhaust fumes. Conclusions: In suburban–rural route environments, noise protrudes as a hindering variable for walking. The mediation analyses showed that vehicle speed intensified noise and had negative effects on both outcomes. Therefore, by reducing vehicle speed, noise levels will be lowered, and the walking experience is likely to be enhanced, which can influence the amount of walking. The results are further illuminated through the exploration of existing and potential future research strategies. Full article

Rapid motorization in Dhaka has worsened congestion, motivating the launch of Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) as a potential solution. However, metro adoption depends not just on infrastructure but on commuter perceptions, intentions, and actual behavior. To track the dynamic evolution of commuter adoption over time, the study employs a unique three-stage Bayesian framework—Pre-MRT Stated Preference (SP), Post-MRT SP, and Post-MRT Revealed Preference (RP) for MRT line-6. Bayesian logistic regression with Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) estimation captures posterior distributions and parameter uncertainty, offering insights into the shifting determinants of MRT adoption. The pre-MRT SP model (pseudo R² = 0.0668) identified affordability as an incentive but highlighted concerns around safety and reliability. Post-MRT, the SP model (pseudo R² = 0.186) found that socio-demographic factors, including gender and employment, strongly influenced preferences, while the RP model (pseudo R² = 0.502) showed that actual behavior was most influenced by proximity to stations, education, and security perceptions. Overall, the findings reveal that expectations and actual behavior often diverge, with adoption maturing over time. The evidence indicates that commuter adoption evolves with system maturity, requiring policies that first build affordability and integration, then strengthen safety and reliability, and ultimately enhance accessibility and long-term efficiency. Full article

Postsocialist peri-urban spaces are characterized by a chaotic development as a result of the transition from communism to capitalism. Recent research has highlighted that liveability in peri-urban spaces encounters challenges of adaptation to the peri-urban areas. The aim of the present study is to identify and analyze patterns and contrasts that occur between age groups and gender in relation to the level of liveability as well as to better understand the daily mobility practices and commuting dependencies and how mobility shapes key contrasts and emerging tensions within Timișoara’s postsocialist peri-urban spaces. As liveability relates to local development, commuting, and accessibility to service facilities in the residential environment, the identification of patterns and differences is imperative when considering the perception of local residents on potential (un)sustainable liveability in peri-urban areas. This study utilizes a quantitative analysis, informed by a survey of considerable size (N = 954) conducted in peri-urban settlements of Timisoara, Romania, with a view to elucidating the distinctions and commonalities in the perceptions held by the local populace. The findings indicate that the elderly population exhibits a greater reluctance to adapt to the emerging peri-urban environment. In contrast, the younger and more educated demographic demonstrates a higher degree of adaptability to the contemporary challenges posed by peri-urban expansion and hazardous development. Daily mobility, including commuting, is directly influenced by the effects of dispersed and chaotic development (e.g., more than 79% of respondents rely on private cars for commuting), as well as the lack of facilities and services (e.g., 2.21 level of satisfaction regarding cultural events). This highlights Timisoara’s dependence on external services, as well as the significant role of personal vehicles in providing access to the city center and its neighborhoods. Therefore, we can observe the peri-urban area undergoing a transitional phase as it navigates the initial stages of sustainable urban development and pursues an enhanced quality of life. Finally, we propose several policy recommendations for local authorities, offering solutions for enhancing liveability in peri-urban areas. Full article

Previous research on subway stations has emphasized indexicality, functionality, comfort, aesthetics, etc., while cultural representation has been neglected. Notably, however, cultural representations in subway stations shape the city image and affects residents’ sense of identity and belonging. In particular, cultural representations on the decorative walls of subway stations play a crucial role. Therefore, the following questions can be asked: Do passengers perceive the representational culture in these subway stations? What is the relationship between the cultural representations on the decorative walls in subway stations and commuters’ spatial perception? Using a case study of the Ping’anli station in Beijing, in response to the research conducted by Xu Y.J. and other scholars, and adopting the method of data triangulation performed through content analysis, social media, and questionnaires, this paper analyses whether and how cultural representations on the decorative walls of subway stations affect commuters’ spatial perceptions. This study provides new insights into the influence of cultural representations in subway stations on commuters’ spatial perceptions. The findings reveal that cultural representations on decorative walls in subway stations do not fully align with commuters’ spatial perception. These findings can offer references for urban planning as well as the planning and design of decorative walls in subway stations. Full article

The first extensive Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in the Philippines, the EDSA Busway, was put into place as a result of Metro Manila’s ongoing traffic congestion. This study uses an integrated framework that combines cost–benefit analysis (CBA), commuter perception survey, and traffic simulation to assess its economic, social, and environmental implications. The operational viability and traffic impact of the planned Magallanes BRT station were evaluated through simulation using PTV VISSIM. A total of 385 commuters participated in a survey measuring their impressions of safety, accessibility, and satisfaction using a four-point Likert scale. The Busway’s excellent economic feasibility was confirmed by the CBA results, which showed a Benefit–Cost Ratio (BCR) of 15.38 and a Net Present Value (NPV) of ₱778.64 billion. Results from the simulation showed a 24% decrease in PM₂ emissions, a 75% increase in throughput, and a 64% reduction in bus trip time. According to survey results, 61% of commuters said accessibility had improved and 62% said travel satisfaction had increased. The study supports the EDSA Busway’s status as a feasible model for future BRT expansion in Metro Manila and other emerging metropolitan regions by showing how it greatly improves environmental sustainability and mobility efficiency. Full article

At the Politecnica Salesiana University (UPS) in Guayaquil, Ecuador, urban mobility challenges were addressed with the aim of improving students’ quality of life and promoting sustainability. This study evaluated the technical, economic, and social feasibility of implementing a shared transportation (carpooling) system using a quantitative-descriptive approach. Surveys were applied to a stratified sample of 256 students to analyze transportation habits. Route planning was performed using ArcGIS software, and costs were calculated with Microsoft Excel. Social impact assessment involved focus groups and analysis of variables such as changes in mobility patterns, system acceptance, and perceived safety, comfort, and accessibility. Key indicators included the percentage of students willing to participate in the pilot (82.7%), satisfaction with travel time savings (85.7% fully satisfied), and positive perceptions of safety and comfort. The results suggest that the proposed system is not only economically viable but also widely accepted by students, contributing to reduced stress, travel time, and single-occupancy vehicle use. This study demonstrates the feasibility of shared transport in urban universities and provides a replicable model to guide sustainable mobility policies that improve safety, comfort, and efficiency in student commuting. Full article

Analyses of student mobility are typically conducted in an urban environment and are informed by socio-demographic or trip attributes. The prevailing focus is on individual modes of transport, different groups of commuters travelling to campus, students’ behavioural perceptions, and the totality of student trips. This paper starts with the identification of the determinants of student mobility that have received insufficient research attention. Utilising surveys, the study captures the mobility patterns of a sample of 1014 students and calculates their carbon footprint (CF; in kg/academic year) to assess whether the factors neglected in previous studies influence differences in the actual environmental load of student commuting. A regression analysis is employed to ascertain the significance of these factors as predictors of sustainable student mobility. This study exclusively focuses on the group of student commuters to campus and analyses the trips associated with compulsory activities at a suburban campus that is distant from the university centre and student facilities, which changes the mobility context in terms of commuting options. The under-researched factors identified in this research have not yet been quantified as CF. The findings confirm that only some of the factors neglected in previous research are statistically significant predictors of the local environmental load of student mobility. Specifically, variables such as student employment, frequency of class attendance, and propensity for ride-sharing could be utilised to forecast and regulate students’ mobility towards more sustainable patterns. However, all of the under-researched factors (including household size, region of origin (i.e., past experiences), residing at term-time accommodation while studying, and the availability of a family car) have an influence on the differences in CF magnitude in the studied campus. Full article

Air pollution is a major environmental and public health challenge, especially in urban areas where fine-grained air quality data are essential to effective interventions. Traditional monitoring networks, while accurate, often lack spatial resolution and public engagement. This study presents a novel wearable wireless sensor node (WSN) that was developed within the Horizon Europe SOCIO-BEE project to support air quality monitoring through citizen science (CS). The low-cost, body-mounted WSN measures NO₂, O₃, and PM_2.5. Three pilot campaigns were conducted in Ancona (Italy), Maroussi (Greece), and Zaragoza (Spain), and involved diverse user groups—seniors, commuters, and students, respectively. PM_2.5 sensor data were validated through two approaches: direct comparison with reference stations and spatial clustering analysis using K-means. The results show strong correlation with official PM_2.5 data (R² = 0.75), with an average absolute error of 0.54 µg/m³ and a statistical confidence interval of ±3.3 µg/m³. In Maroussi and Zaragoza, where no reference stations were available, the clustering approach yielded low intra-cluster coefficients of variation (CV = 0.50 ± 0.40 in Maroussi, CV = 0.28 ± 0.30 in Zaragoza), indicating that the measurements had high internal consistency and spatial homogeneity. Beyond technical validation, user engagement and perceptions were evaluated through pre-/post-campaign surveys. Across all pilots, over 70% of participants reported satisfaction with the system’s usability and inclusiveness. The findings demonstrate that wearable low-cost sensors, when supported by a structured engagement and data validation framework, can provide reliable, actionable air quality data, empowering citizens and informing evidence-based environmental policy. Full article

Commuting plays a critical role in shaping sustainable transport systems, yet understanding the diverse preferences of commuter groups remains a challenge for policymakers. As cities aim to promote sustainable transport, it is essential to better understand the factors influencing travel behaviors. This study investigates the commuting preferences and behaviors of urban employees in Italy, focusing on identifying distinct user profiles and their implications for policy development. Using a dataset of 2301 participants from Italian cities, the research analyzed transport mode choices, willingness to adopt sustainable transport options, and perceptions of public transport (PT) services, including factors such as travel time, proximity to PT stops, cost, and comfort, rated on a four-point Likert scale. K-modes clustering was employed to segment participants into three clusters based on their travel behaviors. The results revealed three distinct user profiles: (1) car-dependent users with negative perceptions of PT, driven by family obligations and dissatisfaction with PT services; (2) individuals who primarily use cars but are somewhat open to improvements in PT; (3) individuals willing to adopt alternative mobility options, including active and shared transport modes. Significant differences were found across clusters in terms of mode choices, willingness to use sustainable transport, and satisfaction with PT services. Notably, employees showed limited interest in alternative sustainable transport modes such as e-scooters and walking, with 73% and 66% of participants expressing little or no interest, respectively. Despite incentives such as company subsidies for purchasing bicycles or e-scooters, 58% of employees remained uninterested in adopting these alternatives. Additionally, employees’ perceptions of PT services revealed dissatisfaction with factors such as travel time, comfort, and punctuality, with over 70% rating these aspects as “Poor” or “Fair”. These findings suggest that improving the quality of PT services, particularly in terms of travel time, punctuality, comfort, and cost, should be a priority for enhancing user satisfaction. This research provides valuable insights for policymakers seeking to reduce car dependence and promote sustainable urban transport planning. Full article

Due to accelerated urbanization, modern urban residents are facing increasing life pressures. Many citizens are experiencing situational aversion in daily commuting, and the deterioration in the traffic environment has led to psychological distress of varying degrees among urban dwellers. Cyclists, who account for about 7% of urban commuters, lack a sense of belonging in the urban space and experience significant deficiencies in the corresponding urban infrastructure, which causes more people to face significant barriers to choosing cycling as a mode of transportation. To address the aforementioned issues, this study proposes a bionic intelligent interaction helmet (BIIH) designed and validated based on the principles of bionics, which has undergone morphological design and structural validation. Constructed around the STM32-embedded development board, the BIIH is an integrated smart cycling helmet engineered to perceive environmental conditions and enable both human–machine interactions and environment–machine interactions. The system incorporates an array of sophisticated electronic components, including temperature and humidity sensors; ultrasonic sensors; ambient light sensors; voice recognition modules; cooling fans; LED indicators; and OLED displays. Additionally, the device is equipped with a mobile power supply, enhancing its portability and ensuring operational efficacy under dynamic conditions. Compared with conventional helmets designed for analogous purposes, the BIIH offers four distinct advantages. Firstly, it enhances the wearer’s environmental perception, thereby improving safety during operation. Secondly, it incorporates a real-time interaction function that optimizes the cycling experience while mitigating psychological stress. Thirdly, validated through bionic design principles, the BIIH exhibits increased specific stiffness, enhancing its structural integrity. Finally, the device’s integrated power and storage capabilities render it portable, autonomous, and adaptable, facilitating iterative improvements and fostering self-sustained development. Collectively, these features establish the BIIH as a methodological and technical foundation for exploring novel research scenarios and prospective applications. Full article

Risk perception and travel behavior under extreme weather have attracted increasing scholarly attention due to their implications for sustainable transport. This study investigates how perceived risks influence commuters’ travel mode choices during heavy rainfall in Qingdao, China, using data from a pilot survey and a stated choice experiment. A Range-varying Generalized Weberian Regret–Rejoice Model (RGWRRM) is developed to capture nonlinear perceptual sensitivities and decision-making under uncertainty. Results indicate that safety and reliability risks significantly shape travel behavior, with commuters showing heightened loss aversion and increased willingness to pay for safer and more dependable modes. The RGWRRM outperforms traditional utility- and regret-based models, offering deeper behavioral insights. By elucidating the mechanisms linking risk perception to mode shifts, this study contributes to the design of resilient and sustainable urban transport strategies in the face of climate-induced disruptions. Full article

As urbanization continues to expand, the design and structure of urban spaces increasingly influence the experiences of individuals, whether intentionally or inadvertently. These effects can result in both positive and negative experiences, with urban facilities generally designed to enhance the comfort and well-being of citizens. However, in certain cases, these spaces can provoke adverse emotional reactions, such as anxiety. Anxiety, a prevalent mental health disorder, is more commonly observed in urban environments than in rural areas. Among various urban settings, rail transport in large cities is often cited as one of the most stressful environments for passengers. In light of the significance of this issue, this study seeks to explore how physical and perceptual components can reduce anxiety and encourage greater use of intra-urban rail transportation. Utilizing a qualitative research approach, the study employed directional content analysis to investigate this topic. Data were collected and analyzed through an exploratory methodology with the assistance of MAXQDA software. The analysis began with guided content coding, drawing on theoretical frameworks pertinent to the research. Through this process, 2387 initial codes were identified, which were then categorized into nine main themes, with the relationships between these codes clarified. The findings were inductively derived from the raw data, leading to the development of a foundational theoretical framework. The study, employing a personalized strategy, identified three key factors that contribute to anxiety: physical, perceptual, and environmental components. Physical factors, such as accessibility, lighting, and signage, were found to have a significant impact on passengers’ psychological well-being. Perceptual factors, including personal perceptions, stress, and fear, played a crucial role in exacerbating anxiety. Additionally, environmental factors, particularly the design of metro networks, rail lines, and flexible transportation lines, such as car-sharing and micromobility, were found to significantly contribute to the overall anxiety experienced by passengers. Moreover, the study suggests that anxiety triggers can be mitigated effectively through the implementation of well-designed policies and management practices. Enhancing the sense of security within transit spaces was found to increase citizens’ willingness to utilize rail transportation. These findings indicate that targeted interventions aimed at improving both the physical and perceptual aspects of the transit environment could enhance the commuter experience and, in turn, foster greater use of rail systems. Full article

This study explores the public acceptance of autonomous vehicles (AVs) using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 framework. Drawing on survey data from 1000 commuters in Seoul, South Korea, this study examines the influence of performance expectations, effort expectations, social influence, hedonic motivation, and facilitating conditions on the behavioral intention to adopt AVs. Structural equation modeling reveals that hedonic motivation (β = 0.56, p < 0.001), price value (β = 0.47, p < 0.001), and performance expectancy (β = 0.64, p < 0.001) are critical determinants of AV acceptance. Additionally, risk perception negatively impacts behavioral intention (β = −0.25, p < 0.001), while policy support (β = 0.51, p < 0.001) and facilitating conditions (β = 0.46, p < 0.001) demonstrate substantial positive influences. Demographic analysis highlights age and gender as significant moderators, with younger users prioritizing performance expectancy and being more sensitive to risk, while older users exhibit a shift from hedonic to utility-driven motivations as they age. Women exhibit greater sensitivity to policy support and economic factors, while men respond more strongly to environmental considerations. In addition, prior experience with advanced driver assistance systems amplifies the influence of enjoyment on facilitating conditions, whereas inexperienced users are more affected by perceived risks. These findings underscore the importance of tailored interventions that address demographic variations, enhance user satisfaction, and balance cost-effectiveness with safety assurances. This study provides insights into actionable strategies for policymakers and industry leaders to promote AV adoption and support the evolution of sustainable urban mobility systems. Full article