In logistics, especially in the last mile sector, it is important to consider future government regulations and plan accordingly. This article will cover upcoming climate, environment, and waste regulations within the UK according to a 2022 publication by the Local Government Association (LGA). Freight transport is around one third of all overall emissions from transport with road freight being about 77% of it. To combat these environmental effects, authorities are looking into more sustainable solutions within last mile delivery. This includes a research project which will inform a UK Transport Decarbonization Plan to help decarbonize transport by 2050.

In the project, 5 key challenges were identified in relation to last mile deliveries:

1.       Increased traffic congestion

2.       Financial viability of alternative models

3.       Rural/urban divide

4.       Significant scale

5.       Ingrained behaviours

Increased traffic congestion is due to more vans and cars adding to air pollution.

Financial viability of alternative models refers to the potential for freight consolidation centres and cleaner vehicles which can be difficult to initially adopt. In the beginning stage, government financial support is normally needed.  

Rural/urban divide speaks to the varying requirements and solutions between the different areas.

Significant scale is required for new initiatives. Approximately 3 billion parcels are sent per year which makes establishing sustainable last mile delivery an essential part of upcoming plans.

Ingrained behaviours include customer willingness to pay for more sustainable products and deliveries, educating and training end customers, and stakeholders implementing more sustainable practices.

 

From the project, 5 key solutions were brought up:

1.       E-cargo bikes and micro consolidation

2.       Compulsory consolidation centres

3.       Smaller electric vehicles for rural areas

4.       Road pricing for last mile deliveries

5.       Pricing to disincentivize rapid delivery

E-cargo bikes and micro consolidation looks to reduce the amount of vans on the road.

Compulsory consolidation centres can be created with government support.

Smaller electric vehicles for rural areas can be a clean solution for deliveries.

Road pricing for last mile deliveries including buying more sustainable items and potentially slower delivery times for the consolidation of goods.

Beyond just the UK, there is a growing need for more sustainable deliveries globally. The LGA has shown that the government must be involved in local freight measures. This includes when there must be changes implemented in existing or new regulations or legislations.