Cities are facing multiple heavy vehicles on their local roads. The subsequent impacts include higher greenhouse gases emissions, noise, and air pollution. In some cases, such as Amsterdam, it can even damage the bridges and canal walls.

In this regard, Paris is increasing the number of logistics facilities into the city, with the use of so-called ‘logistics hotels’ in high-density areas. Parcels from suburban logistics centres are pooled at the ‘logistics hotels’ via freight train services or a limited number of larger delivery shuttle-trucks. The city rents out the space in these ‘logistics hotels’ at a favourable rate, in exchange of delivery firms using low-emission transport modes.

With deliveries being made from smaller, lower emission vehicles (e.g., electric tricycles), these ‘logistics facilities’ contribute to lowering greenhouse gases emissions, while increasing the productivity of the delivery services. Overall, it targets the reduction of heavy vehicle use and the associated negative impacts.

Photo by Ruchindra Gunasekara