We are currently in the fourth wave of digitalization. The transportation industry has been using digital technology and methods for some time. However, the current digital era is radically transforming the way the industry supports the sustainable development of society, reverses the dramatic consequences of pollution, and helps the world thrive again.

Expectations of how the industry reacts to environmental challenges are quickly evolving, and this new era presents opportunities for both operators and travelers. Therefore, a conscious analysis of all current challenges may represent one of the keys to making public transport even more environmentally sustainable.

Can digitalization transform public transport into a more frequent travel choice and support emission reduction?

What makes public transport more appealing to passengers?

It is not only comfort. Nor is convenience the only expectation that leads customers to opt for a train or a bus, rather than driving their car. They also expect transportation services to be affordable and timely.

The consequences of technologies and new advanced integrated platforms will help the transportation industry move in parallel with the fourth wave of digitalization to meet the changing expectations of the modern commuter.

It appears that the border between transport operators and customers became much thinner than it used to be. Passengers can rely on onboard digital solutions to express preferences in real-time having a more direct and responsible impact on transport operators and their strategic sustainable development. It is not only a matter of data collection at the end of the journey but also a continuous and meticulous control over passengers’ feedback on sustainable solutions.

People believe that sustainability is one of the top priorities in improving our world, and digital transformation seems to be perceived as a key enabler.

Passengers’ expectations in 2050, according to the Statista Research Department, show that:

“96% of passengers stated that they expected that aircraft would need to be more environmentally sustainable in 2050”

Therefore, today the best way to improve services is to work more closely with passengers to fully understand what they need and expect in terms of digital solutions and services. And how these, in turn, drive cleaner and more sustainable transport solutions.

Opportunities to support the environment

The fourth wave of digitalization also referred to as the Internet of Things (IoT), is now contributing to improve the market and create new opportunities for the transportation industry aiming to increase efficiency, lower costs and facilitate accessibility.

IoT is a powerful foundation for enabling sustainable development. Thanks to a plethora of internet-connected devices, collecting data through advanced information technology is now much easier and more accurate.

The data comes from different sources and is typically collected in real time. This volume of data, also known as “Big Data,” can now drive real-time decision-making by transport operators and travelers. Eventually, the collected data will be highly relevant for the strategic planning of any transport provider, which is a crucial step toward the actual development of a more sustainable transport system.

For example, the China Urban Transport Database (CUTD) was developed in 2010 to pursue more sustainable urban transport through “Big Data” collection, analysis, and resulting improvements. China’s need to reduce traffic congestion and air pollution prompted the idea that public transport could represent the most promising way to face and solve these issues. Therefore, the China Urban Transport Database collects essential data to help China tailor sustainable solutions to user needs and expectations

The full potential of IoT goes beyond big data collection. It allows remote vehicle management, which helps prevent and resolve challenges in real-time. For instance, a sustainabl