Exploring the Characteristics of Green Travel and the Satisfaction It Provides in Cities Located in Cold Regions of China: An Empirical Study in Heilongjiang Province

Abstract

Green travel can decrease energy consumption and air pollution. Many cities in China have implemented measures encouraging residents to take public transport, ride bicycles, or walk. However, non-green travel is still popular in some northern cities due to prolonged cold weather. In order to understand the characteristics of green travel and its use by urban residents in Heilongjiang Province, a typically cold region, this study conducted traffic surveys in 13 cities in Heilongjiang Province. Through investigation and calculation of the data, we obtained key indicators such as the share rate of motorized travel for public transit and the satisfaction derived from green travel. According to the results of the data analysis, green energy buses are becoming increasingly popular in most cities in Heilongjiang Province. However, green travel infrastructure has failed to be updated on time, resulting in low satisfaction with travel in some cities, especially in terms of the waiting environment in winter. Results indicate the level of exploration and development of green transportation resources significantly differed across cities in Heilongjiang Province. By implementing targeted policies such as developing NEBs, obsoleting TEBs and old NEBs, and optimizing the bus network, old industrial cities can be reinvigorated. This will support governmental decisions and contribute to reducing carbon emissions.