Category «Policies»

Delivery drivers get more rights under new EU law

Crowd-shipping delivery drivers via online platforms are becoming increasingly common in last-mile delivery sector. Unlike zero-hour contract workers, these drivers are classified as independent contractors or freelancers, allowing providers to bypass employment legislation regarding zero-hour contracts. Platform work Last-mile providers engaging in these practices use their branded apps to onboard drivers as independent contractors, who …

Ulez: fewer dirty cars in London. But the health impact is unclear

The Guardian reports, ‘Ulez expansion led to a significant drop in air pollutants in London, report finds.’ That’s an interesting quote. According to the City of London, the change is equivalent to removing 200,000 cars yearly. That sounds like good news. Nine million people live in the area now covered by Ulez. Will they now …

Integrating city logistics in spatial planning in the Netherlands

There is a significant focus on reducing emissions from city logistics. However, even zero-emission vehicles occupy valuable urban space when unloaded onto roads and sidewalks. Despite the spatial impact of city logistics, it is seldom considered in spatial planning. Based on four case studies in the Netherlands, researchers explore how to actively integrate city logistics …

Urban studies must consider urban freight

In a new paper, the authors argue that urban studies must consider urban freight as a crucial component of ongoing urban transformations. The movement of goods is increasingly shaping cities, with uncertain implications for sustainability, livability, and justice. Despite its importance, freight logistics has been largely overlooked in urban studies. This paper aims to address …

What KPIs to use for smart mobility? The case of Barcelona

A recent article identifies and examines key performance indicators (KPIs) for citizen mobility logistics in smart and sustainable urban areas. It begins with a comprehensive literature review to identify essential KPIs, offering valuable insights for public and private stakeholders, including policymakers and mobility service providers. Drawing from various mobility projects in smart cities, the study …

Research: analyzing shared mobility markets in Europe

The progression of shared mobility across Europe is remarkable. While station-based car and bike sharing have a longer history, particularly in major European capitals, recent advancements in modal types and operational models have significantly transformed the shared mobility landscape. Rapid expansion by private organizations has broadened access to shared mobility services across Europe. However, not …

New York City secures $5.6M grant to Launch Urban Freight Lab

New York City Department of Transportation (NYC DOT) Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez announced that the city received a $5.6 million federal grant from the United States Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) program. This funding will create an Urban Freight Mobility Collaborative (UFC), an innovation hub designed to revolutionize urban …

What is the future of city logistics hubs?

City logistics is fundamental to city life. However, it is responsible for around half of the local air pollutants in cities caused by traffic, generating congestion and other emissions. Moreover, city logistics involves more than just e-commerce. Recent trends in goods distribution, reverse logistics, the emergence of dark kitchens and dark stores, and growing regulatory …

Amsterdam (NL) starts zero-emission zone on January 1, 2025

From January 1st, Amsterdam will implement a zero-emission zone for commercial and freight vehicles in the city center (within the S100). The current low-emission zone within the A10 ring road will also be tightened. The most polluting diesel cars will no longer be allowed there. The requirements that Amsterdam will set from January 1, 2025, …

Who shouts the loudest? A study exploring barriers and enablers to implement low emission zones

Low emission zones (LEZ) have proven effective in reducing pollution and are gaining popularity, though they remain controversial. The LEZ is a highly divisive policy. Understanding the factors that facilitate or hinder their implementation is crucial. In the UK, Clean Air Zones (CAZ), a type of LEZ, are being established in several cities. A recent …