Growing numbers of Finnish motorists say they are more willing to leave their cars at home and use public transport.
A survey by the Finnish Vehicle Administration AKE shows that in June of this year, 21 percent of respondents used public transport at least once a week, as compared to 14% at the same time one year before.
According to AKE, there has been a significant change in the number of people who say that they rarely or never use mass transport. Last year 69% fell into this category. This year that figure was 57%.
Furthermore, the share of people who say that they would not use mass transport services for any reason whatsoever fell from 29% to 18%.
The study indicates that private car use has also declined. 63% of respondents said that they are driving less because of higher fuel prices. A concern for the health of the environment was named by 22% as a reason for driving less.
About one in ten said that they are driving less and using public transport more.
The poll, carried out by TNS Gallup surveyed 1 050 motorists between the ages of 18 and 65.