EURO 2025 Leeds
Abstract Submission

817. Evaluating Sustainable Last-Mile Logistics: Barriers, Solutions, and Readiness Metrics

Invited abstract in session TC-59: Innovations for a Greener City and Sustainable Urban Logistics I, stream Transportation.

Tuesday, 12:30-14:00
Room: Liberty 1.14

Authors (first author is the speaker)

1. Jorge Bandeira
University of Aveiro
2. Eloisa Macedo
Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Aveiro

Abstract

As part of the SPOTLOG Interreg Europe Project, a survey was conducted to understand stakeholders perspectives concerning barriers, challenges and potential solutions for sustainable last-mile deliveries (SLMDs). With 95 valid responses from different professional sectors, results show cycle logistics, e-vehicles, micro-hubs and shared delivery systems enhance efficiency and reduce last-mile logistics impact. Moreover, results suggest community cooperation and infrastructure development are key to enabling sustainable delivery practices. We then propose a novel framework for assessing regional readiness for SLMDs through the development of a Regional Readiness Level for SLMDs (RRSLMD) indicator. Recognising the growing importance of efficient and SLMDs, particularly in the face of increasing e-commerce and urbanisation, the need for a standardized metric to evaluate a region's preparedness for SLMD practices seems relevant. The proposed RRSLMD indicator consolidates a set of measures, encompassing key dimensions such as infrastructure (e.g., charging stations, micro-consolidation centers), policy frameworks (e.g., regulations, incentives), technology adoption (e.g., electric vehicles, smart logistics platforms), and consumer awareness (e.g., acceptance of alternative delivery methods). A practical tool was designed to empower regions to understand and evaluate their current status, identify improvement areas, and benchmark progress towards achieving SLMDs.

Keywords

Status: accepted


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