Changing Transport Behaviour for Sustainable Urban Mobility

Purpose: The paper aims to analyze residents’ current transport habits and their willingness to change mobility behaviour within the Warsaw West functional area (Mazovian Voivodship, Poland). The study supports the preparation of a Sustainable Urban Mobility Plan (SUMP) by identifying behavioural patterns, challenges, and expectations related to sustainable transport. Design/Methodology/Approach: An online survey conducted in 2021 among 177 residents from seven municipalities and three counties collected data on travel modes, frequency, and preferences. Descriptive statistics and comparative analysis were used to assess current mobility behaviours and respondents’ readiness to adopt sustainable alternatives. The study focuses on citizens’ perceptions of road safety, public transport accessibility, and infrastructure for vulnerable road users. Findings: The results show that 83% of respondents are willing to change their mobility habits, provided that improvements in public transport, multimodal integration, and active travel infrastructure are made. Only 17% expressed no intention to modify their travel behaviours. Car dependency remains dominant—used by over half of residents for local trips—while walking and cycling are popular only within municipal boundaries. Improved public transport connections and safe cycling routes are key motivators for change. The findings provide a diagnostic basis for long-term implementation of the SUMP in the Warsaw West area. Practical recommendations: Local governments should prioritize integrated public transport systems, safe pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, and community engagement to promote behavioural change. Implementing SUMP principles will reduce congestion, pollution, and accident risks, contributing to improved quality of life and road safety. Originality value: This study provides one of the first empirical analyses of residents’ readiness to shift toward sustainable transport modes in the Warsaw West functional area. It highlights behavioural aspects often overlooked in technical mobility planning, offering practical insights for SUMP implementation in medium-sized urban regions.