Effects of high urban temperatures on use of low-carbon transportation and participation in outdoor physical activities

Climate change intensifies urban heat, affecting residents’ use of low-carbon transportation and participation in outdoor activities. This study surveyed six municipalities in Taiwan to assess how different population groups respond under normal and high-temperature conditions. Latent profile analysis of survey data identified five psycho-behavioral segments—HeatSensitive, TransportSensitive, HeatEndurer, HeatProofer, and OutdoorSensitive—each exhibiting distinct psychographic, socioeconomic, regional, and behavioral characteristics. Results indicate that high temperatures significantly reduce intentions to engage in low-carbon transportation and outdoor activities, with older adults and lower-income groups being most affected. In contrast, residents with higher socioeconomic status demonstrate greater resilience, maintaining both mobility and outdoor activity. These findings highlight the need for targeted policy interventions, including climate adaptation communications, transit-oriented urban planning, and shaded public spaces, to promote inclusive, equitable, and climate-resilient urban adaptation strategies.