by Walther Ploos van Amstel
What should be included in the election programs of parties that truly care about a livable, accessible, and vital city center? It is commendable that a local party commits to smarter urban logistics… but with the right starting points. D66 Eindhoven states: “We are investing in smart urban logistics. With transshipment hubs, we ensure that …
City authorities across Europe are under growing pressure to make urban logistics more sustainable. Zero-emission zones, last-mile delivery regulations, and climate targets are multiplying. Yet despite this political momentum, most cities continue to handle logistics in a fragmented, reactive way. Why is progress so slow? A new study from the Norwegian Center for Transport Research …
With the new round of the Dutch AanZET subsidy now open, the electrification of heavy-duty road transport is getting another push. It is badly needed. Many carriers still underestimate how fast and how fundamentally the sector is about to change. Decarbonisation requires uncomfortable strategic choices: invest, cooperate, or outsource. Companies without a strategy risk being …
Recent research has underscored the central role of local authorities in shaping sustainable urban logistics. Although European directives have long encouraged greener freight solutions, French planning documents have historically paid limited attention to logistics. A new study, analyzing 121 local authorities, provides fresh insights into how urban logistics is being gradually integrated into local public …
Delivering goods safely and cleanly – and collecting waste efficiently – in our city centers is a significant challenge. This is especially true since the introduction of zero-emission zones on January 1, 2025, while urban populations continue to grow. The Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency (PBL) predicts that by 2035, the four largest cities will experience …
A recent study in Norway sheds light on the evolving role of urban authorities in freight governance, particularly in smaller cities. While local governments have a presence in freight-related decision-making, many perceive their influence as limited—either by narrow institutional mandates or by a reluctance to regulate freight activities more assertively. This uncertainty often leads to …
Meeting Europe’s 2030 zero-emission targets for heavy-duty vehicles requires urgent action. While OEMs face binding CO₂ targets, demand-side incentives remain limited, hindering the adoption of operators. Instruments like ETS2, CO₂-based road charges, and subsidies are essential. Hydrogen vehicles, crucial for long-haul, face early-stage market challenges and infrastructure gaps. Infrastructure needs differ: urban fleets can use …
How do local governments in England view the future of low-carbon last-mile logistics? A recent study sheds light on the views of 35 local authorities and offers a deeper understanding of what’s needed to make sustainable urban freight a reality. The key takeaway? Behavior change and collaboration may be more powerful than technology alone—though far …
Nearly three-quarters of CO2 emissions from freight transport stem from heavy diesel trucks, presenting a significant challenge in transitioning to sustainable fuels for this vehicle category. A recent report by ITF examines emerging technologies that can potentially reduce emissions from road freight. The report outlines a strategic approach for governments to identify and support technologies deserving …
To support this transition to a cleaner and more efficient freight system, local authorities need to understand their role and what opportunities might arise from the overall national strategy. For this reason, the Local Government Association (LGA) has commissioned Dr. Daniela Paddeu of the Centre for Transport and Society, the University of the West of …