3.1 Enabling framework and conditions The effectiveness of last-mile delivery interventions varies significantly depending on the geographical, political, economic and social contexts. Micromobility solutions such as e-bikes and scooters may suit high-density areas but may not work well over the larger distances that need to be covered in sprawling cities. Similarly, the availability of land for logistics applications and cycle infrastructure will determine the optimal combination of interventions. Topography and weather also affect the adoption of solutions that feature cycling and walking. Political factors, regulations and policies can accelerate or hinder the adoption of solutions. The ability to invest in infrastructure such as EV charging or cycle lanes is also essential to enable these interventions. Economic factors, including affordability and market competition, affect the cost and speed of implementation. In regions with limited capital or less competition, the roll-out of solutions such as EV fleets and parcel lockers may be slower. Finally, public perception and social norms play a significant role. In areas or communities in which sustainability is a mainstream concern, there is often greater acceptance of interventions such as EVs and e-bike deliveries. In contrast, communities with deeply ingrained practices may resist such changes as using PUDO points instead of home deliveries. Public support is essential for these solutions to succeed. 3.2 Impact of solutions Modelling interventions offer valuable insights into their impacts on the last-mile delivery landscape. The most impactful interventions identified through modelling are highlighted in this section. The model focuses on the effects on delivery costs, number of delivery journeys, congestion and carbon emissions – the areas of impact most critical to the delivery ecosystem. The six city archetypes provide some nuance to a global challenge, and the outcomes of interventions have been assessed using these. Zero-emission zones can help accelerate the environmental benefits of a transition to EVs Replacing ICE vans with EVs could reduce carbon emissions by up to 85%. Switching from ICE two-wheelers to e-bikes in cities could cut carbon emissions by 90% and last-mile delivery costs by 22%. Introducing zero-emission zones in city centres can accelerate the transition to clean fleets, achieving carbon savings of up to 55% citywide. With supporting infrastructure such as charging points and cycle lanes, these measures can significantly reduce environmental impacts. Single-operator microhubs for cross-docking can unlock new efficiencies Couriers’ use of their own microhubs near consumers enables fewer, shorter, zero-emission deliveries. When the microhub also dispatches deliveries using zero-emission two-wheelers or limited-range vehicles, this can lower carbon emissions by up to 93% and reduce congestion by up to 11%. Cross-docking facilities allow couriers to access areas that exclude motorized four-wheelers, making the journey to customers more efficient. Replacing ICE vans with EVs could reduce carbon emissions by up to 85%. Transforming Urban Logistics: Sustainable and Efficient Last-Mile Delivery in Cities 18

Transforming Urban Logistics 2024