The role of a Sustainable Mobility Guarantee in the social-ecological transformation of the transport sector

Abstract

The dissertation examines the concept of a Sustainable Mobility Guarantee (SMG) as a tool for the social-ecological transformation of the transport sector. The focus is on passenger transport in Europe, with Austria serving as a case study for quantitative analyses. The SMG aims to ensure accessible, sustainable everyday mobility for all, primarily by strengthening public transport,active mobility (cycling and walking), and shared mobility options.The study employs a mixed-methods approach to analyze the following areas: (1) the definition and implementation scenarios of the SMG, (2) its impacts on the transport system and mobility behavior, and (3) its economic and environmental effects. A comprehensive literature reviewreveals that mobility guarantees are currently defined in diverse ways — ranging from very specific guarantees for individual modes of transport, routes, or user groups to broad legislative frameworks that establish a general right to mobility. Building on this, the dissertation develops an SMG definition that incorporates social and ecological sustainability as well as the specific needs of rural regions. The SMG includes parameters such as accessibility (spatial and temporal),infrastructure quality, affordability (user costs), and simplified fare and booking systems.To analyze potential impacts of the SMG on the transport system, the study uses qualitative approaches (System Dynamics, Multi-Level Perspective) and quantitative simulations with the MARS transport model for Austria. Depending on the SMG’s design, varying effects can be achieved. The findings show that comprehensive improvements to public transport lead toincreased public transport usage but have little effect on car traffic. In contrast, focusing onpromoting active mobility results in a more pronounced shift from car trips to sustainable transport modes. External factors, such as the development of the electric vehicle fleet, also influence the outcomes considerably. A key finding from the simulations is that the ecological goals of the SMG, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, can only be achieved if additional public transport and active mobility offerings are combined with restrictive measures for carusage.The economic effects were evaluated through a cost-benefit analysis. The results indicate that the substantial investments required to implement an SMG can be offset in several scenariosby reduced climate change damage, lower vehicle operating costs, decreased accident costs, and other positive effects.The dissertation concludes that the SMG is a promising instrument for advancing the social ecologicaltransformation of the transport sector, albeit with limitations. Its implementation requires political collaboration and should be part of a broader package of measures to achievefull effectiveness. Recommendations include the creation of a clear legal framework, investments in public transport, the expansion of infrastructure for active mobility, and measures to reducecar usage. The findings provide valuable insights for sustainable transport policy and support climate goals, quality of life, and social equity.