Leisure Mobility Among Young Urban Residents: A Case Study of the GZM Metropolis

Abstract

Motivation: The post-pandemic shift in working patterns (the spread of remote and hybrid working) can lead to significant changes in daily mobility patterns. These changes may raise questions about their impact on leisure travel behaviour, modal choices and urban transport sustainability. Understanding how young citizens of the GZM Metropolis use their leisure time and how they fulfil their mobility needs is crucial for shaping policies that support sustainable mobility and urban development.

Aim: This study investigated how work organisation influences the leisure-time mobility patterns of residents of the GZM Metropolis, aged under 35. It investigated whether increased time autonomy have an impact on changes in leisure-time activity preferences, travel frequency and transport mode choice. The findings contribute to the discussion on sustainable urban mobility policy.

Results: The results indicate that while remote and hybrid work may increase flexibility in time management, it does not directly lead to more frequent leisure-related travel. Recreational mobility in the GZM area largely relies on car transport, posing a challenge to developing a sustainable urban mobility model that also considers leisure travel. The study highlights the need for greater attention from policymakers to the impact of "unsustainable" leisure mobility on balancing urban transport systems. By linking changes in recreational behaviours with transport policies, it provides valuable insights for policymakers, planners, and researchers working on sustainable mobility and transport strategies.