European cities are leading in zero-emissions logistics 

At least 110 European cities have committed to decarbonizing urban transport by 2030, a move that will be vital for zero-emissions in logistics. 

A new data report from Clean Cities Campaign states that 35 cities have already outlined plans to introduce zero-emission zones over the next few years, with more cities to follow suit. 

The cities are already forming alliances with businesses and civil society to speed up the transition.  

“Although trucks and vans only represent a small share of all road vehicles in cities, they have a disproportionate impact on greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution,” states the report. 

The study’s results are based on a literature review, a database of zero-emission zones, and 20 expert interviews. 

Why logistics need to focus on decarbonizing transport

For European cities to function – urban logistics is crucial. But the way it’s currently organized is described by environmentalists as “often unsustainable.” This is largely due to the widespread use of vans and trucks polluting the air. 

The Clean Cities Campaign is advocating for a targeted financial support structure and electric charging infrastructure to encourage the use of more electric vehicles in logistics. 

Companies can also get involved by creating action plans for zero-emission urban logistics. The report advises that businesses invest in:

• Electric cargo bikes
• Electric vans
• Electric trucks 

It also wants companies to share progress and lessons learned with other cities and businesses to encourage more to get on board before 2030.

Stronger action is needed to fight air pollution

It’s the challenge of this century: Decarbonizing mobility. Cleaning up the road freight transport in Europe is crucial. 

According to the Clean Cities Campaign report, vans and heavy-duty vehicles accounted for 13% of all vehicles on EU roads. However, it caused 51% of nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and 40% of greenhouse gas emissions in 2021.

Despite all this knowledge, it’s estimated that the current European regulations will only reduce emissions from heavy-duty vehicles by about two-thirds by 2050.

The data shows that in many major European cities, van fleets and traffic have surged in recent years. It has completely outpaced growth in passenger cars, overall traffic, and population. 

Demanding action to stop pollution in logistics

The Clean Cities Campaign report shows that authorities and companies must both be held accountable for addressing this crisis. 

Authorities should do more by stepping up efforts to manage deliveries. In London, 59% of respondents think their local councils should take stronger action to stop pollution.

When it comes to companies, Parisians want to see more zero-emission zones where only electric vehicles and cargo bikes can make deliveries. 

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Photo credit: Clean Cities Campaign

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