MCI Mobility Survey Reveals Trends in Sustainable Commuting

Studies conducted by MCI students examine the mobility behavior of MCI employees and students

As an institution of higher education, MCI attracts thousands of students and employees to its campus. The necessary commuting between homes and campus constitutes an important component of the university’s carbon footprint and provides a unique opportunity to study mobility patterns and, eventually, promote sustainable transportation solutions.

Under the supervision of Prof. Thomas Stöckl, Business & Management bachelor's students Sophia Glanzer and Monja Hauswicka conducted an in-depth analysis of the commuting habits of MCI students and employees for their theses. Their research focuses on identifying the key factors influencing transportation choices and proposes strategies to promote more sustainable commuting. The student survey yielded 384 responses, while the employee survey gathered 150 responses. Both surveys aimed to assess various aspects of commuting behavior, including preferred modes of transportation, reasons for transport choices, and influencing factors like travel time, distance, and availability of incentives.

Outcomes MCI student mobility survey

The student survey conducted by Sophia Glanzer revealed a strong inclination towards sustainable commuting options, with a significant majority choosing active transport (walking, cycling) or public transportation. The primary modes of transport were active transport (walking/cycling – chosen for its health benefits, enjoyment, and environmental considerations), public transportation (for longer distances, often influenced by weather conditions, travel distance, and convenience), and private vehicles (used mainly for comfort, time-saving, and direct routes, especially when travel distances are longer).

The survey identified several key factors influencing the choice of transportation, including travel time and distance as students tend to rely more on motorized transportation as travel time and distance increase, and the urban context, as students living in urban areas prefer public and active transportation due to shorter commutes and reduced travel times. The availability of incentives such as reduced-cost public transport passes and bike-sharing services can significantly boost the adoption of sustainable transport options. The survey also showed that access to a car remains a strong determinant for choosing private transport, especially among wealthier or older students.

Outcomes MCI staff mobility survey

The employee survey conducted by Monja Hauswicka highlighted a similar trend towards sustainable commuting, with a slightly higher share of employees opting for active modes compared to public transportation. The preferences were influenced by health benefits and the enjoyment of being outdoors, as well as environmental consciousness when opting for active transport, whilst sustainability consciousness, weather, and distance impacted public transport choices. Private cars are mainly for convenience, direct travel routes, and the ability to run errands before or after work.

The main influencing factors for employees’ commuting choices included travel time and commuting distance, with longer travel times and greater distances increasing reliance on private vehicles. Higher frequency of trains, buses, and trams is associated with increased usage. Employee choices are positively impacted by incentives, such as subsidies for public transport and support for bike-sharing programs.

The mobility survey provides valuable insights into the commuting patterns of the MCI community and will be used to inform MCI’s sustainability reporting initiatives as well as further development of strategies and incentives.