Shaping mobility futures: understanding Millennials and Gen Z transport choices for sustainable policy design

Introduction The evolving societal landscape, driven by digitisation, environmental awareness, and urban transportation diversification, presents challenges for transport policymakers. This study examines the transport behaviours of Millennials and Generation Z from two Czech cities with distinct transport service offerings, aiming to identify the diverse motivations influencing their mode choices.Material and Method This study employs a qualitative approach to explore young adults’ transport needs and motivations in two distinct cities within the same country. The research integrates desk research with 30 semi-structured interviews, providing in-depth insights into the transportation behaviours of Millennials and Generation Z.Results The findings underscore the significant role of transport infrastructure and policy in shaping sustainable transport behaviours. While digitalisation and smart technologies appeal to young adults, participants emphasized that local transport options significantly influence their choices. Interviewees from Prague reported greater reliance on public transport, whereas those from Ústí nad Labem expressed a stronger preference for car use and online shopping. Parking policies emerged as a key factor, particularly affecting Generation Z, who demonstrated greater sensitivity to car-use restrictions. However, respondents indicated that the mere availability of green alternatives does not necessarily translate into substantial behavioural shifts.Conclusion Soft tools, such as employer incentives, institutional ride-sharing applications, and education campaigns, are crucial for promoting sustainable mobility. These insights provide a foundation for evidence-based urban policymaking, aimed at addressing the evolving transport needs of younger generations.