The multidimensionality of green transition attitudes and their role in sustainable mobility uptake

Although sustainable mobility is a key societal target, understanding the local determinants of individual transport mode choice amidst decarbonization remains underdeveloped. This study addresses this gap and explores how the multidimensionality of green transition attitudes influences sustainable mobility uptake in Italy. We find four key components of green transition attitudes: the respondents’ attitudes toward (1) performance of actors and institutions in green transition and ensuring its fairness, (2) policies to limit climate change in a way that is inclusive and fair and leaves no one behind, (3) contributing to the green transition through jobs, skills, and personal responsibility beyond the workplace, and (4) taking action to fight climate change. Our findings demonstrate that positive assessments of actors and institutions’ performance and fairness in managing the green transition are significantly linked to a higher likelihood of choosing walking over using private motorized vehicles, suggesting that individuals who hold favorable views of sustainability-promoting actors and institutions are more receptive to utilizing sustainable transport modes and supporting evidence that trust and perceived legitimacy are pivotal in fostering pro-environmental choices. These results offer valuable guidance for promoting greener transport solutions and advancing the sustainable mobility agenda that is inclusive, evidence-based, and context-specific.