The Trend toward Sustainable Train Travel among the Young Generation Z: Market Analysis in Romania

In order to sustainably manage environmental issues that involve the use of transportation networks predominantly for tourism purposes, it is necessary to foster responsibility among all involved stakeholders. Among these, young adults from Generation Z are particularly relevant, as they are more aware of environmental problems than other groups. However, empirical research on their sustainable behaviour in using trains as a means to facilitate tourism is limited. This research makes a significant contribution by integrating and extending existing theories from travel behaviour and consumer psychology into a complex model that includes the awareness of the importance of sustainability in train travel among Romanian young adults belonging to Generation Z. The present study aims to investigate the influence of a sustainable attitude toward train travel as an intrinsic determinant and three external factors that are usually analysed in the context of travel mode choice: Socialisation, predictability (or convenience), and comfort during train travel. The analysis focuses exclusively on young Romanian adults belonging to Generation Z. A nationwide survey was conducted among 427 respondents who travelled by train at least once a year to collect data on various demographic variables. The data was analysed using Microsoft Excel, SPSS, and WarpPLS. The results showed that sustainability and predictability significantly influence the social aspects of train travel and contribute to positive experiences and interactions among young travellers. Furthermore, sustainability and predictability significantly and positively impact GenZ s perception of comfort during the journey. The results of the study provide practical guidance for policy makers and companies to develop strategies to promote environmental awareness and sustainable travel practices.