Social media and transport: a win-win for economic and environmental sustainability

An increase in the use of pervasive technology (such as smart phones) provides a new paradigm within which it is possible to achieve the ‘win-win’ of both environmental and economic sustainability through the transport system. This paper outlines the means through which the an integration of data from tracking individual transport patterns, shared social media data and system data from the transport infrastructure can be used to achieve environmental benefits whilst maintaining the necessary mobility for economic growth. The research outlines attitudes towards new technologies and their uptake internationally. The potential benefits arising from informational and other incentives via technology are predicated on an understanding of how individuals prioritise green choices against other objectives (such as delay and reliability). These priorities are discussed and illustrated using primary data within the specific context of uptake of new technology. Finally, the paper provides a structure for future development based on greater integration, liberalisation of data flow and reform of governance structures within the transport and business sectors.