Reducing the environmental impact of urban parcel distribution

In the framework of rising requirements concerning the environmental impact of urban parcel delivery, UPS has tested various approaches to reduce emissions with steady or even enhanced operational efficiency. Three different alternatives to classic diesel drive technology were tested in the city of Hamburg, i.e. parcel vehicles with electlic drive, and e-assisted cargo tricycles either solely or in combination with a parcel storage container. The corresponding costs, greenhouse gas, Sal, NOx, co and particulate matter emissions have been assessed and discussed. The analyses show that none of the isolated pilot tests result in overall reduced costs and emissions; however they need to be evaluated thoroughly. Clear advantages of the alternatives are outlined and their embedding in the overall UPS urban network in combination with an increased purchase of renewable energy promise a future reduction of costs and the environmental impact of UPS' urban parcel distribution.