Analysis of Green Travel Choice Behavior of Residents in Central Urban Areas: Applying the Theory of Planned Behavior and Stimulus–Organism–Response Model

Chunyao Deng (dcy19900726@nefu.edu.cn), Zhenwu Shi (shizhenwu@nefu.edu.cn), Yanli Zhang and Jinru Wang
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Chunyao Deng: College of Civil Engineering and Transportation, Northeast Forestry University, 26 Hexing Road, Harbin 150041, China
Zhenwu Shi: College of Civil Engineering and Transportation, Northeast Forestry University, 26 Hexing Road, Harbin 150041, China
Yanli Zhang: Heilongjiang Institute of Land and Space Planning, No. 17 Huashan Road, Nangang District, Harbin 150041, China
Jinru Wang: College of Civil Engineering and Transportation, Northeast Forestry University, 26 Hexing Road, Harbin 150041, China

Sustainability, 2025, vol. 17, issue 5, 1-24

Abstract: The potential benefits of green travel in achieving dual-carbon goals and promoting sustainable urban development have been widely recognized. However, the various factors influencing green travel behavior in small- and medium-sized central urban areas have not been adequately explored. This study developed a theoretical model to analyze residents’ green travel decision-making, integrating the theory of planned behavior and the stimulus–organism–response model. The model was validated through qualitative and quantitative analyses, revealing key findings. (1) Residents’ green travel awareness and intentions are influenced by personal characteristics, internal psychological factors, and external environmental factors, each with varying degrees of impact. (2) Psychological demand for travel and extreme weather conditions significantly impact green travel awareness. (3) Green travel awareness positively affects actual green travel behavior, with other factors indirectly influencing behavioral intention through awareness. (4) Subjective norms and policy support directly influence green travel choices. Based on these findings, the study suggests policy recommendations to enhance residents’ green travel awareness, promoting sustainable urban development.

Keywords: green travel; travel behavior; green travel awareness; theory of planned behavior; stimulus–organism–response model; structural equation model (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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