Each year, freight transport is responsible for a million tonnes of CO₂ emissions in Paris, and almost a million deliveries are made every day in the Greater Paris Region (Île-de-France).
These two record figures are partly caused by changing patterns of consumption but also the fact that urban logistics is far from optimal due to the use of outdated vehicles.

The approach adopted by IFSTTAR in the area of urban logistics is unique in France. In particular, it can draw on the results of traffic data collection campaigns and a variety of surveys, for example ECHO¹ shipper survey. The Institute is also currently evaluating and comparing a variety of metropolitan logistics facilities, drawing up maps that illustrate “logistical decentralization” and developing scenarios that are innovative and clean. These studies aim to inform public decision-making and help firms plan organizational changes and select different types of transport (electric or gas powered vehicles, two or three-wheelers, etc.).

Although the “last kilometre” of the journey is known to have very harmful environmental impacts, IFSTTAR is involved in attempts to mitigate them by creating new types of logistical hubs in city centres.
IFSTTAR contributes to the progress in curbing the current practices.

¹ ECHO : Envois CHargeurs Opérateurs