Author: Athena Tsirimpa, MobyX
As the quest for sustainable solutions in city logistics gains momentum, innovative collaborative business models are emerging as key contributors towards this transformation. These emerging business models strive to revolutionise last-mile delivery services, focusing on resilient and eco-friendly solutions that can benefit the urban environment, while optimising the operations of the service providers. New interventions are sprawling across various areas, from the usage of autonomous vehicles and droids/bots to the establishment of micro-consolidation centers in public spaces and the implementation of cargo-hitching initiatives. These solutions are pioneering, aiming to create dynamic, cooperative business models designed to attain commercial viability and foster economic benefits, while embracing social and environmental sustainability dimensions.
The heart of these business models lies in fostering symbiotic relationships: focusing on the interaction between infrastructure providers, including city authorities and fleet owners, carriers and logistics service providers (LSPs). This mutual collaboration is essential for unlocking potential value creation and establishing robust partnerships. Flexibility is embedded at the core, paving the way for broader market reach and an enhanced range of products and services, ensuring long-term sustainability and operational excellence.
To facilitate the seamless integration of these innovative solutions, a comprehensive guidance strategy is pivotal. This strategy should be in alignment with existing sustainable urban mobility plans, adjusting to diverse socio-economic conditions, political realities, and regulatory statuses. It should act as a beacon, guiding cities towards the implementation of sustainable urban logistics plans, addressing distinct needs and contributing to a harmonious and sustainable urban environment.
The GREEN-LOG project is developing collaborative business models for sustainable city logistics, showcasing the practicality of advanced, environmentally-focused strategies through real-world demonstrations. These models are set to optimise urban supply chains by fostering a data-driven, symbiotic network among all stakeholders, thereby reducing carbon footprints and delivering socio-economic advantages.
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