Are car-free lifestyles feasible in low-density, sprawling contexts? A comparison of a city in Australia and Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This research examines the impacts associated with adopting a car-free lifestyle among urban residents, with a particular focus on low-density, sprawling cities in Saudi Arabia and Australia. The study targets the cities of Al-Ahsa and Brisbane, conducting detailed case analyses to shed light on the key elements of daily life impacted by transportation alternatives. It examines behavioural changes related to transportation choices, adjustments in daily routines, and the diversity of transportation modes used in a car-free environment, as well as commuting patterns, communication strategies, financial impacts, and barriers faced by residents. The research uses the Transtheoretical Model of change (TTM) as a guiding theoretical framework, facilitating a nuanced exploration of the complexities involved in behavioural change. This framework is vital because it captures not only the full experiences of individuals who have successfully transitioned to a car-free lifestyle, but also partial experiences and relapses. By linking empirical observations to theoretical foundations, the study offers multidimensional research on how car-free living impacts urban residents, enriching the debate on sustainable urban living. The Methodological contributions, of this study is uniqe car-free experimental design , which deliberately chooses a matching paired design to compare the highly car-dependent Gulf context with the more well-understood and researched North American/Australian context. Examining Al-Ahsa, the study reveals that a car-free lifestyle is possible, but its limitations are limited to a small geographical area connecting adjacent neighbourhoods. Outside of these neighbourhood's, the feasibility of car-free living diminishes significantly, highlighting the need for comprehensive urban planning. The current infrastructure does not support a comprehensive public transportation system, necessitating a radical reassessment of transportation policies and investments within Al-Ahsa. To achieve a more sustainable urban environment, stakeholders must prioritize the development of transportation infrastructure that facilitates a car-free lifestyle and overcomes current constraints. All this can be achieved by relying on infrastructure that supports the sustainable use of various modes of transport. In contrast, the Brisbane analysis presents a more optimistic picture, suggesting that a car-free lifestyle is feasible and effective in the central urban area. However, the study confirms that this efficiency declines significantly the further one moves from the city centre. This finding suggests that Brisbane needs to enhance its transportation framework to increase the feasibility and convenience of sustainable travel options. In both contexts, the research identifies an urgent need to develop infrastructure that supports diverse modes of transport while promoting environmental responsibility in both the city centre and the sprawling, outlying suburbs. While the research provides valuable insights, it also reflects on the challenges associated with transitioning to a car-free lifestyle. Resistance to change can be a significant barrier, as residents may struggle to adapt their daily routines and realize the potential benefits of living without a personal car. However, through targeted interventions behavioural shifts toward sustainable transport practices can be facilitated even in short period of time. This comprehensive study of car-free living in Al-Ahsa and Brisbane reveals the complexities and multifaceted nature of urban transport policies. As cities grapple with sustainability issues, understanding the impacts of a car-free lifestyle becomes increasingly important. By combining empirical insights with theoretical frameworks, the research contributes to the critical dialogue on promoting sustainable urban living, emphasizing the need for infrastructure investments that meet diverse transport needs while promoting environmentally responsible behaviours among urban residents.