Sustainable supply chain transportation

Abstract

Freight transportation, both in Europe and globally, contributes significantly to global CO2 emissions. The current state of freight transportation, both in Europe and worldwide, is undeniably unsustainable. Various stakeholders, including NGOs, policymakers, governments, industries, and consumers, are taking action to establish environmentally conscious transportation networks. Despite initiatives targeting carbon neutrality by 2050, concerns about their sufficiency remain. In this thesis, the future trajectories and emission factors for different transportation modes were assessed based on available data on emissions, fuel consumption, policies, and emerging technologies. In this thesis, we could conclude that all modes of transport are committing to decarbonise by usage of less carbon-intensive fuels and more efficient power trains. Air cargo is likely to see reduced emissions due to the uptake of more Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and e-kerosene usage. Road freight and shipping are introducing new technologies such as hydrogen, e-fuel, and electric power trains to do the same. Whereas, railways are focusing on electrification and grid decarbonization to reduce their carbon intensity while promoting their usage. In terms of general emission-reduction methods in this study, modal shift and inter-modal transportation has emerged as a crucial aspect in increasing efficiency and lowering emissions where lesser carbon-intensive modes such as railway and shipping. The report also emphasizes the importance of system-based solutions, optimization, and digitization in bridging the gaps between diverse modes of transportation. The report also highlights other gaps or obstacles in the current freight transportation system in Europe to help stakeholders overcome obstacles, take advantage of opportunities, and transition smoothly to sustainable freight transportation.