Willingness to pay for ecological public transport : theoretical approach

Abstract

PURPOSE: The aim of the paper is to understand if and why people are willing to pay for urban transport, particularly in terms of its sustainability. The author seeks possible ways to assess how WTP can be measured for public goods, specifically in the case of electric vehicles usage in public transport. By understanding the level of WTP among city residents, transport planning can better incorporate social and ecological perspectives. The research also aims to explore the factors influencing WTP, such as demographics, environmental awareness, and knowledge of new energy vehicles.

DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: The article was based on the research through available literature in the field of willing to pay concept relating to public transport services. While the specific method isn't explicitly stated in the paper, the author mentions contingent valuation and hedonic pricing method as potential approaches for understanding WTP in the context of public goods, particularly electric vehicles in public transport. The study also shows the possibility of using surveys and statistical analysis to explore the relationship between WTP and various factors like demographics, environmental awareness, and benefits of using electric vehicles.

FINDINGS: The research allowed to identify the gap in the area of willingness to pay for environmental friendly vehicles in public transport, especially in the case of Poland. Existing research shows many examples of worldwide cities, but is missing important data from polish cities. The research reveals a complex relationship between various factors and WTP, including demographics, environmental awareness, knowledge about alternative drive vehicles, and perceived tax burdens. Specifically, younger people and those more knowledgeable about new energy vehicles tend to have a higher WTP. However, there's potential resistance to increase of fares, even for more ecological options due to concerns about existing taxes. The study emphasizes the importance of public service obligations in pricing strategies for public transport, balancing affordability, accessibility, and financial sustainability.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: The article provides in-depth research and knowledge about the socio-economic factors related to the concept of willingness to pay in relation to public transport services. The paper shows overview of the public service market in the field of urban transport services including possible ways to introduce electric vehicles.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The article uses the lates research in the field of willingness to pay concept within the area of electric vehicles usage in public transport and identifies the research gap in this particular subject.