Active school travel in China: Unveiling multifaceted influences for sustainable mobility

This study examines multifaceted factors influencing active school travel (AST) in China, utilizing the social ecological model as an analytical framework. Leveraging data from the China Family Panel Survey (CFPS) spanning 2014–2018 and encompassing 5,522 individuals aged 5 to 18, binary logistic regression models were employed. A stark decline in AST prevalence among students was observed over this period. Factors influencing AST behavior were identified: a dense road network, lower distance from school, and moderate temperatures promoted AST, while higher family income, access to private vehicles, and smaller households deterred participation. Maternal education and belonging to the “Gen Y” demographic also impacted AST engagement, along with paternal education level. Notably, AST was more prevalent among boys, rural students, and older students. Subgroup analyses highlighted differing influencing factors between adolescents and children. This study provides a holistic understanding of AST behavior, vital for effective intervention strategies promoting sustainable mobility.