Uncovering pathways towards sustainable transportation: Investigating factors influencing societal acceptance of end-of-life vehicle management in Indonesia

Addressing the critical environmental challenge of end-of-life vehicle (ELV) management in Indonesia’s transportation industry, this study investigates the complex interplay between societal factors and technical adoption. We use a comprehensive survey and path analysis to investigate the relationships between demographic characteristics (gender, age, income and education) and ELV acceptance, revealing complex preferences and concerns across several population groups. Comparative analyses with previous research reveal gender-specific inequities and age-related problems, emphasizing the importance of customized measures. Our findings indicate that environmental concerns exhibit a significant positive relationship with community acceptance (path coefficient = 0.426, p < 0.001). Moreover, technological familiarity (path coefficient = 0.352, p < 0.001) and infrastructure availability (path coefficient = 0.518, p < 0.001) demonstrate noteworthy positive associations, emphasizing the role of knowledge and accessible infrastructure in promoting acceptance. Conversely, the cost of adoption exhibits a negative relationship with societal acceptance (path coefficient = −0.269, p < 0.001), suggesting potential challenges that must be addressed. Mediation analysis uncovers the mediating roles of information exposure, perceived safety, as well as convenience and accessibility. Total effects analysis validates the collective influence of crucial factors while acknowledging the potential hindrance posed by the cost of adoption. Our findings contribute to inclusive policies and initiatives for sustainable ELV practices, offering insights to address a critical environmental issue in Indonesia. Although acknowledging limitations in scope and methodology, our research advances the discourse on sustainable transportation transitions and guides strategies to promote responsible ELV management in pursuing a greener and more socially equitable future.