Logistics in the Sustainable Urban Landscape

The urban canvas is undergoing a transformative shift, with greener and vibrant spaces emerging in both city centers and low-traffic neighborhoods. While passenger mobility alternatives are making progress in reclaiming public spaces from cars, similar advancements in logistics have received less attention. However, logistics vehicles, including those used for parcel logistics, construction, repair services, waste management, and retail distribution, paradoxically become more prominent in the evolving streetscape.

Recognizing the need for more sustainable city logistics, important stakeholders such as local authorities, logistics operators, citizens, and local businesses are taking the initial steps towards alternative forms of transport, in an attempt to free up public space and create more livable cities. With complexities arising from diverse stakeholder interests, contextual developments, and limited knowledge, logistics stakeholders and policymakers are compelled to act now in shaping the logistics of the future.

The theme “Logistics in the Sustainable Urban Landscape” logistics delves into the intricate interplay between logistics operations, consumer patterns, public policy, urban design, and human behavior during the transition towards sustainable city logistics. It aims to foster inter- and trans-disciplinary research, teaching, and public engagement centered around five primary goals and challenges:

1. Assessing the Effectiveness of Innovative Solutions for Livable Cities: Conduct rigorous research and evaluation of innovative solutions, analyzing their environmental impact, economic viability, and social benefits.

2. Facilitating Stakeholder Collaboration and Public Policy Development: Establish multi-stakeholder platforms, working towards comprehensive frameworks for sustainable city logistics.

3. Ensuring Justice, Fairness, and Equity for Smaller Firms and Inhabitants: Implement measures to support small and local businesses and address potential inequalities during the transition.

4. Cultivating New Imaginaries for Last-Mile Logistics and City Life: Encourage urban planners to integrate last-mile logistics into their designs, involving citizens and communities in the process to enhance social interaction and vibrant public spaces.

5. Enhancing Data-driven Decision Making and Knowledge Sharing: Develop robust frameworks for data collection, analysis, and sharing to drive informed decision-making and knowledge exchange among stakeholders.

Contact Dr. ir. Paul Buijs and Dr. Ward Rauws