A Possible Model of Resilient and Environment-Friendly Transport: Assessment of Users’ Propensity Towards Demand Responsive Transit (DRT) Service

The evidence of the effects of climate change on environmental resources and on living beings and humans is now clear and scientifically proven. The recently concluded COP 28 in Dubai (30 November–13 December 2023) endorsed a number of targets to be achieved, including the phasing out of fossil fuels and the increased use of renewable energies. Cities, in this gradual ecological transition, play a fundamental and strategic role. Among the Sustainable Development Goals of UN Agenda 2030, Goal 11 “Sustainable Cities and Communities” aims to “make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable”, that promotes a participatory and integrated transport-land planning; to ensure access to safe and economic living spaces and transport systems. The objective of this paper is to illustrate the primary results of an integrated approach to consider the role of Green Infrastructures (GIs) and Transport Mobility (TM) as key components in the transition towards a model of sustainable cities and eco-friendly planning. The research was conducted within the metropolitan city of Catania (Italy). The study is divided into two phases: 1) (already completed), acquired information, through interviews, on citizens’ perceptions of the GIs to combat climate change and their willingness to pay to support the maintenance of these infrastructures; 2) (in progress) envisages an extended survey to assess users’ propensity towards innovative shared transport systems and also their willingness to pay for the service. The results of the research will provide decision-making support for the administration and stakeholders to guide public investments and develop strategies towards a model of eco-friendly planning.