Study title

The objectives of the research were as follows: (1) to identify and measure a series of ‘sustainable travel behaviours’ using a sample of individuals from the general public; (2) to explore the empirical and conceptual links between different types of sustainable travel practices amongst the sample; (3) to use segmentation analysis to identify a series of lifestyle groups based on these behavioural data; (4) to use an established framework of environmental behaviour to identify the motivators and barriers for adopting different forms of behaviour according to lifestyle group; (5) to use the results from objectives 1-4 to assist local and national policy makers in promoting sustainable lifestyle practices. There were 3 primary data collection stages focused around 5 sites, selected for their residential type (high-density, inner-city suburban, low-density outskirts, commuter town and rural centre). In each location the following data collection was undertaken: (1)Two focus group discussions with members of the public selected through convenience based sample techniques in July 2008; (2) A questionnaire survey of 400 households selected using systematic random sampling, based on address lists provided by the Royal Mail Address Database; (3) One follow-up focus group discussion with selected respondents to the quantitative survey. In addition, five in-depth interviews were undertaken with participants to the questionnaire, one in each study location. It is a cross-sectional(one-time) study, interviews were conducted face-to-face, and the selection criteria for the sample was one-stage stratified, systematic random sample. This research explores the motivations and barriers encountered by individuals for adopting more ‘sustainable’ forms of travel behaviour in a range of lifestyle contexts, including travel for work, leisure and holidays. Through a series of questionnaire and focus groups analyses with the public, the research examines the links between...