Grounded Theory analysis of commuters discussing a workplace carbon-reduction target: Autonomy, satisfaction, and willingness to change behaviour in drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcyclists, and bus users

Thomas, Gregory O. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5566-4416, Walker, Ian and Musselwhite, Charles 2014. Grounded Theory analysis of commuters discussing a workplace carbon-reduction target: Autonomy, satisfaction, and willingness to change behaviour in drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, motorcyclists, and bus users. Transportation Research Part F: Traffic Psychology and Behaviour 26 , pp. 72-81. 10.1016/j.trf.2014.06.009

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Abstract

This qualitative analysis compared focus group discussions of a carbon reduction target amongst users of different modes who travel to the same workplace. Grounded Theory analysis showed discussions expanded to wider carbon costs and more issues than those specifically described in the target. Differences in people’s perceptions of carbon emissions varied with travel mode: walkers and bicyclists showed high awareness and concern; car drivers and motorcyclists were more pessimistic and cautious of imposing restrictions, with a particular suspicion of ‘greenwash’ actions that do not provide actual benefits. Changing travel mode for carbon reduction was discussed cautiously by all groups, with concern over the legitimacy of efforts to influence a personal choice, and the need for a ‘balanced’ approach that would not punish personal decisions. Notably, participants discussed their current mode in terms of perceived autonomy, and feared losing this autonomy if they changed mode. This role of autonomy emerged as a central theme in discussions of carbon reduction, providing ideas for future interventions.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Architecture
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BF Psychology H Social Sciences > HE Transportation and Communications H Social Sciences > HT Communities. Classes. Races
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Qualitative analysis; Travel mode choice; Behaviour change; Environmental attitudes
Publisher:	Elsevier
ISSN:	1369-8478
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	3 May 2016
Last Modified:	06 Nov 2023 23:52
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/73705

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