Key Insights from the TGM Global Sustainability Report 2024

How Greener Mobility Drives Sustainability in LATAM

LATAM consumers are redefining sustainability through everyday mobility. With most concerned about climate change, they’re turning to walking, cycling, public transit, and shared transport as practical, climate-conscious choices that make a real impact.

Written by

Chi Bui

With a keen eye for market trends and a passion for creative strategy, Chi crafts compelling stories that help brands connect with global audiences more effectively.

According to the TGM LATAM Sustainability Report 2024, access remains a critical challenge, with nearly 20% of respondents citing a lack of reliable public transportation as a barrier to greener living. Yet, instead of halting progress, LATAM consumers are embracing the solutions available to them—walking, biking, sharing rides, and relying on public transit—transforming everyday mobility into a driver of sustainability.

Sustainability Attitudes: Concern Turns Local

In LATAM, climate change is seen as deeply personal. More than three in four believe it will directly affect their own lives, and 85% anticipate severe consequences for their children and grandchildren.

What makes this concern distinctive is its grounding in everyday life. Instead of waiting for top-down solutions, many LATAM consumers are already adapting how they move, work, and consume. It’s a values-driven pragmatism where personal well-being and community resilience converge.

More than 3 in 4 of LATAM respondents believe climate change will directly affect their own lives

Lifestyle Choices: Greener Transport Takes the Lead

Regular sustainable transportation options of LATAM consumers

Transportation has become the most visible expression of sustainability in LATAM. Walking is the top eco-friendly option, chosen by 60% of respondents, followed by public transit (42%) and bicycling (33%). Electric vehicles, while less accessible, are used by 9%—a signal of slow but emerging adoption.

When asked how they actively reduce their carbon footprint, 34% cite greener mobility choices such as public transport, biking, walking, or carpooling. These actions go beyond environmentalism; they are daily acts that help ease traffic congestion, improve air quality, and reduce household expenses on fuel.

Everyday Mobility, Everyday Sustainability

What sets LATAM apart is how economic constraints and environmental awareness intersect. In wealthier regions, sustainable mobility is often marketed as aspirational—think premium electric cars or high-tech bikes. In LATAM, greener transport is grounded in accessibility, affordability, and community impact.

People walk to work because it’s faster than sitting in traffic, cycle because it saves money, or carpool because it strengthens social networks. With climate concern rising, these same behaviors are now reframed as climate-friendly, giving consumers pride in choices they were already making out of necessity.

Barriers That Still Need to Be Overcome

Despite the momentum, structural barriers persist. 40% cite high costs of sustainable products as a challenge, while 30% mention a lack of practical information. Notably, nearly 20% highlight insufficient public transportation options—a key obstacle if greener commuting is to become the default choice in more cities across the region.

These barriers reflect the gap between individual willingness and systemic support. Without more investment in infrastructure, education, and affordable alternatives, sustainable choices risk remaining limited to those with access, rather than becoming a standard across all LATAM communities.

Implications for Brands and Policymakers

LATAM’s transportation shift shows how sustainability is being redefined on the ground: less about luxury, more about access and practicality. For brands, governments, and city planners, the path forward is clear:

Expand reliable and affordable public transit systems to reduce congestion and emissions.
Invest in safe pedestrian and cycling infrastructure, making green mobility a realistic choice for all.
Encourage shared mobility through carpooling incentives, ride-sharing platforms, and accessible electric transport.
Educate consumers on how their transport habits tie directly to climate impact, building pride in sustainable choices.

For LATAM, greener transport is not just about moving people; it’s about moving societies toward healthier, more sustainable cities. By embracing affordability, accessibility, and everyday ingenuity, the region is demonstrating how climate action can become part of the daily commute.

Want to see how LATAM consumers are driving sustainability through everyday mobility? Download the free Mini TGM LATAM Sustainability Report 2024 to explore how walking, cycling, public transit, and shared transport are reshaping the region’s green future.

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