Samenvatting

This chapter “Sustainable City Logistics” explores how cities are transitioning toward more efficient, low-emission, and multimodal logistics systems. Traditional urban freight has long depended on vans and trucks, which, while essential, contribute significantly to congestion, emissions, and noise. As cities pursue zero-emission targets, a variety of alternative delivery modes—both traditional and technology-driven—are reshaping the logistics landscape.
Previously overlooked modes such as walking, crowdshipping, barge transport, and public transport are now gaining policy attention. Walking plays a vital role in last-meter deliveries, especially when supported by microhubs and designated unloading zones. Crowdshipping leverages citizens’ daily travel patterns for deliveries, promoting social inclusion and sustainability, though it faces challenges regarding trust, regulation, and labour standards. Similarly, the use of waterways and public transport networks for goods distribution offers new opportunities to reduce road traffic and emissions.
At the same time, technology-driven innovations are accelerating. Light Electric Freight Vehicles (LEFVs)—including e-cargo bikes and small electric vans—are increasingly used in dense urban areas due to their agility, low emissions, and compatibility with zero-emission zones. Drones and delivery robots are already operational in several Asian cities, offering flexible, contactless last-mile solutions, though most countries still face legal and regulatory hurdles before adopting them widely. Underground freight and Hyperloop systems remain in experimental stages but promise transformative efficiency gains for the future.
Overall, the evolution of city logistics reflects a shift from vehicle-focused to system-oriented approaches. Success depends on combining multiple modes, supported by data-driven management, smart infrastructure, and coordinated policies. Sustainable logistics will require collaboration between governments, logistics providers, and citizens to balance efficiency, accessibility, and liveability in the urban environment—moving toward truly zero-impact cities.
All authors of this chapter are member of the research community Low Impact Lastmile logisticS (LILS).