Sustainable and Smart City Logistics

Sustainable and Smart City Logistics explores the rapidly evolving field of city logistics and the critical challenges and opportunities of managing the flow of goods, services and information in urban environments. The book addresses the complex, multifaceted nature of city logistics through an interdisciplinary lens, integrating urban planning, sustainability science, technology and operations management. With a focus on innovative solutions, emerging challenges and future directions in urban freight systems and last-mile delivery, the book is a vital resource for navigating the evolving landscape of urban logistics.

The chapters cover key developments in city logistics, including:

• integration of digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, blockchain and digital twins to enhance route optimization, real-time tracking and overall efficiency in urban freight systems
• emerging solutions like autonomous delivery vehicles, drones, parcel lockers and crowd-sourced logistics platforms to meet the growing demand for e-commerce
• adoption of green logistics practices, electrification of delivery fleets, and carbon-neutral initiatives to reduce environmental impact
• collaboration between logistics and urban mobility planners to develop smart transportation networks, multi-modal hubs and shared infrastructure for freight and passenger mobility
• evolving frameworks to manage urban congestion, improve land use and ensure equitable access to logistics services while balancing the interests of diverse stakeholders
• case studies highlighting regional innovations, challenges and best practices in developed and developing economies.

Sustainable and Smart City Logistics bridges the gap between theoretical research and practical applications, offering actionable insights for academics, practitioners and policymakers to develop sustainable and efficient urban logistics systems.