AbstractsEarth & Environmental Science

Several statistical studies show that women in developed countries, taken to be facing equal opportunities, are more environmentally benevolent in transport choice than men, as well as shape more environmentally benign (i.e. smaller) mobilities. Some researchers contend that a greater inclusion of women is needed in matters furthering sustainable development within the transport sector, because they believe women to be intrinsically more environmentally conscious. However, few qualitative studies explore the actual reasons behind women's more environmentally sustainable behavior in the transport sector. This qualitative study, conducted in Uppsala, aims to uncover the situation in present-day Sweden, a country renowned for its high level of sustainability and gender equality initiatives. Fourteen in-depth interviews were carried out (allowing for greater insight into the factors informing individuals' transport choices and mobility patterns) with a sample of individuals pertaining to two demographically different neighborhoods (providing an observation of the influence that other demographic and socio-economic factors might have). While the results show certain gendered undertones in the organization of the interviewed individuals' lifestyles, the reasons behind making certain transport choices and shaping one's mobility are reported by the study's subjects to be the same for both men and women. The primary factors guiding the interviewees' choices are predominantly linked to convenience, saving money, and saving time. Although the interviewees speak of facing equal opportunities, however, these appear to be to an extent still influenced by gender, mainly in the meaning ascribed to automobility and an unequal division of labor.