Urban Logistics Transformation

This book explores the most efficient transformation pathways of urban logistics, specifically in the bonds of sustainable e-commerce, focusing on efficient, smart and sustainable urban logistics concepts while introducing circular economy approaches. With the majority of economic activities and resource overconsumption occurring in rapidly growing urban areas, transportation systems lead to a substantial increase in urban road transport, which accounts for 40 % of all CO2 emissions and up to 70 % of other pollutants. Meanwhile, recent years have shown that transportation and mobility systems became extremely vulnerable to disruptions caused by geo-political instabilities, pandemics (COVID), intensified global trade, and new business models across logistics, particularly e-commerce and associated logistics platforms.

The logistics market associated with e-commerce is projected to grow significantly, making last-mile efficiency a top priority. Green last mile logistics has been a key topic for the transport researchers since last decade. Research and innovation projects have developed, piloted and evaluated various technical solutions and policy measures to address the challenges by increasing efficiency, transition to zero emission vehicles and cargo bikes, facilitate and integrate reverse and forward material/good flows. However, such research results have been presented as project deliverables, not being included within well disseminated literature. While many books focus on e-commerce growth, few address the specific challenges of last-mile logistics, pointing the actual industrial and political strategies to integrate forward and reverse logistics. This book summarizes state-of-the-art of last mile logistics for e-commerce, and bridges the gap in literature by offering practical solutions, case studies, and future trends. Against this background, the book reviews all innovative solutions, best practices and lessons learnt in the urban logistics sector. It also presents various policy tools and discusses challenges in current urban planning strategies. Recommendations in future urban planning and urban space management conclude the book.