City Logistics in Emilia-Romagna: new report on Urban Freight Mobility

City Logistics in Emilia-Romagna: new report on Urban Freight Mobility

A new report titled “Preliminary Study for the Analysis of Trends and Innovation Pathways, with Reference to Urban Freight Mobility Measures Developed by the Cities of Emilia-Romagna” has been released by TRT Trasporti e Territorio on behalf of Clust-ER Economia Urbana.

The study provides an in-depth overview of urban logistics in Emilia-Romagna, identifying innovative strategies and models for more sustainable and efficient goods distribution.
This initiative is part of Clust-ER’s broader commitment to urban resilience and environmental sustainability, with a particular focus on the environmental and organisational impacts of freight mobility in urban areas.

Urban Freight Mobility Measures

The report reviews the urban logistics policies and measures included in the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans (SUMP) of major cities across Emilia-Romagna, also integrating data and insights from the Sustainable Urban Logistics Plans (SULP).

Based on the analysis of fifteen cities, the study outlines key actions such as access and parking regulations for commercial vehicles, the development of green logistics initiatives, and the creation of collaborative management models involving public authorities, logistics operators, and local stakeholders.

European Projects and Regional Actions for Sustainable Logistics

One section of the report focuses on European projects that promote sustainable urban logistics, involving cities such as Bologna, Modena, Reggio Emilia, Parma, Cesena, and Rimini.

The report also highlights regional initiatives led by Emilia-Romagna — including the PAIR 2030 Plan and the Protocol for the Harmonisation of Freight LTZ (Limited Traffic Zone) Management — which together provide a coordinated framework for urban freight mobility across the region.

Recommendations and Future Directions

The report concludes with a set of key findings and recommendations, developed also through interviews with representatives of local administrations. Among the main priorities identified are:

  • the creation of micro-hubs and local logistics spaces;
  • the adoption of digital tools for freight flow monitoring;
  • public-private partnerships for the planning and implementation of logistics measures;
  • and incentives for the transition to zero-emission vehicles.

The report serves as a strategic reference for public authorities, logistics operators, and stakeholders committed to developing sustainable models of urban freight distribution, in line with the European objectives for decarbonisation and improved quality of urban life.

🔗 Download the full report (PDF) – available in Italian only