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E-commerce presents a fantastic opportunity for consumers to receive product deliveries anytime, anyhow and anywhere. However, a major challenge for all logistics systems is that of environmental sustainability, and for e-commerce, the distribution of products to consumers constitutes one of the largest environmental challenges. This chapter focusses on green distribution alternatives for consumers, and thereby provides an overview of how e-commerce can become more environmentally sustainable through offering such alternatives. The chapter starts by pointing to two major trends behind the greening of e-commerce: the growth of e-commerce itself and the increasing societal and corporate concern for environmental sustainability. Building on a series of studies of e-commerce development on the Swedish market, the perspectives of consumers, retailers and logistics service providers paint a broad picture of e-commerce delivery. Finally, today’s as well as potential future challenges for sustainable e-commerce deliveries are discussed.

Purpose: Among a multitude of initiatives that can contribute to decarbonize freight transport (McKinnon, 2018), electrification has surficed as a main strategy (Li et al, 2022). The transition towards electrification has commenced, but in particular for long-haul transportation it is slow. Obstacles to the transition include the price of the new technology, lack of infrastructure and lack of policy incentives. In addition, the technology is new to all actors. This new-ness, together with the acknowledged complexity of the transition to electrified freight proposes learning challenges for all involved actors, for example vehicle manufacturers, haulier firms, logistics service providers and shippers. The necessary knowledge to navigate and operate the freight transport system cannot reside in one single orchestrator of the supply chain, but must be shared among actors, which in turn highlight the need for interaction with the purpose to share knowledge and experiences, and to jointly build new knowledge. This paper aims to address how learning among actors in the supply chain can contribute to accelerate the electrification of freight transport. Design / Methodology / Approach: This conceotual paper presents a framework for describing and analysing learning between actors in a supply chain. The framework takes a stance in a model for organisational learning (Crossan, Lane & White, 1999) adapted to the context of inter-organisational learning. This model will be adapted to the context of electrification of freight based on findings from a range of ongoing research projects into electrification of freight transport. Findings: The paper presents a model for describing and analysing learning between organisations in a supply chain. The model is conceptual and is intended to be used for analysing multi-actor learning processes in the context of electrification of freight. Practical implications: The results of the paper include suggestions for how learning between a

Purpose Electrification of road freight transport is a promising solution to achieve transportation climate goals. This study aims to provide a system-level understanding of the impacts of electrification on the road freight transport system and to develop a model that describes the system and enables the analysis of the interrelationships between system variables Methodology Using a system dynamics approach, a causal loop diagram (CLD) model is developed. The model structure is based on the three-layer model proposed by Wandel et al. (1992) and developed by Browne et al. (2022). A mixed methods approach is employed, including group model building, an impact analysis workshop, and literature analysis. Findings The study presents a conceptual multi-layer model that illustrates the complex causal relationships between variables in different layers of the freight transport system. Moreover, two example CLD models are provided: one exploring the factors that affect the attractiveness of electric trucks and another illustrating the trade-off between battery size and charging infrastructure. Research limitations The study's main limitation is the challenge of recognizing all variables and their interconnections in such a complex system. Rather than providing an accurate picture of the system, the study aims to demonstrate the system's complexity and highlight some important dynamics. Original/value The study's system dynamics models aim to provide decision-makers with a comprehensive understanding of the system, enabling them to make better-informed decisions that consider the impact of their policies on the system as a whole., QC 20231106

Logistics networks need to conform to arising market trends and public requirements for greening freight transport through a series of Green Logistics Practices (GLPs). This study sets out to explore the use of fossil-free fuels as a GLP and possible influence on business strategy and system design. A literature review was conducted which concluded that literature about the use of fossil-free fuels is limited. An explorative interview study was conducted to further explore the use of biomethane among actors in logistics networks. Customers increasingly request green freight transport typically accepting moderately higher prices for green transport. Development of green logistics services is predominately driven by corporate stakeholders and internal initiatives, while public regulation appeared to have a weak influence. The study revealed new insights into how GLPs can relate to each other., Funding Agencies|Trafikverket

Inom ramen för det VINNOVA-finansierade projektet ”Hållbar distribution i e-handeln: Hur kan klimatsmarta leveransalternativ underlättas” (HELSMART) har syftet varit att ta fram kunskap om hur e-handlare kan utforma och presentera klimatsmarta leveransalternativ till konsumenter för att minimera klimatpåverkan från e-handelsdistributionen, och på så sätt bidra till ett fossilfritt samhälle. I denna rapport presenteras resultaten från projektet, som pågått under 2020-2023 och som varit ett samarbete mellan Linköpings Universitet och Stockholms Universitet. Projektet har kombinerat olika datainsamlingsmetoder, vilket gett möjlighet att förstå utmaningen med hållbara e-handelsleveranser ur olika perspektiv. Metoderna inkluderar dels en genomgång av e-handlares hemsidor, dels fallstudier och intervjuer med e-handlare, logistikföretag och transportplattformsföretag, och dels konsumentdata från faktiska köp före och efter introduktionen av ”miljömärkning” av leveranser. Sammantaget har det här projektet följt utvecklingen av miljömässigt hållbar e-handelsdistribution i en svensk kontext under de senaste nästan fyra åren. Resultaten visar att det finns en enorm komplexitet kopplat till miljömässigt hållbara leveransalternativ. För att belysa denna komplexitet så presenteras i rapporten en process som beskriver tre steg för att kunna utforma och presentera klimatsmarta leveransalternativ till konsumenter. Dessa innefattar: Identifiera miljömässigt hållbara leveransalternativ, Erbjuda miljömässigt hållbara leveransalternativ till konsumenter, och Vägleda konsumenters val av miljömässigt hållbara leveransalternativ. Genomgång av de tre stegen leder sedan fram till en avslutande diskussion där fyra centrala budskap lyfts. För det första är det inte självklart vad som menas med miljömässigt hållbar leverans. Här finns t.ex. oklarheter i vad man är ute efter att minimera när man vill uppnå miljömässigt hållbara leveranser, och om och hur det går att jämföra olika logistikf

Hållbar distribution i e-handeln: Hur kan klimatsmarta leveransalternativ underlättas?

Byggtransporter står för en betydande andel av CO2-utsläppen i byggprojekt (ca 10%) och en bättre logistik leder till lägre utsläpp, mindre trängseleffekter och lägre kostnader. Projektet Fossilfri Bygglogistik, finansierat av Trafikverket genom Triple F, har 2019-2021 studerat potentialen i att minska utsläppen från byggtransporter med förbättrad logistik baserat på ett systemsynsätt. Projektet har varit ett samarbete mellan Linköpings universitet, VTI, Logistikia, Energifabriken, Renall, Almroths, SanktKors, Stångåstaden, Hyresbostäder, Peab, NCC, RagnSells, PreZero, Lambertsson och Byggföretagen. Projektet har utgått från tre frågeställningar: • Vad är potentialerna med samordnad bygglogistik och vad krävs för att hämta hem dessa? • Vilka metoder/lösningar är användbara för att nå målet om fossilfrihet? • Vad är rollfördelningen mellan aktörer. som är delaktiga i ett bygglogistiksystem, och behöver den förändras för att uppnå fossilfrihet Projektet har tre huvudsakliga resultat: 1) Utvärdering av piloter såsom nyttan av bygglogistiklösningar i olika projekt och för olika aktörer, mätetal för byggtransporter och möjliga data för att följa upp, samt effekterna av en HVO-tank på site. 2) Potentialerna i att arbeta med en fossilfri bygglogistik utifrån ett systemperspektiv där inte bara enskilda byggen studeras utan även större bygglogistiksystem samt hur man kan beräkna CO2 emissionerna från bygglogistiken för den samlade byggvolymen i en stad. 3) En beskrivning av hur aktörerna i bygglogistiksystemet och hur de påverkar olika åtgärder för att minska utsläppen genom sina respektive roller har också identifierats.En av de viktigaste slutsatserna är att det idag saknas rätt förutsättningarna för att implementera en fossilfri bygglogistik i stor skala. Det saknas gemensamma målbilder för logistiken., Fossilfri Bygglogistik

Byggtransporter står för en betydande andel av CO2-utsläppen i byggprojekt (ca 10%) och en bättre logistik leder till lägre utsläpp, mindre trängseleffekter och lägre kostnader. Projektet Fossilfri Bygglogistik, finansierat av Trafikverket genom Triple F, har 2019-2021 studerat potentialen i att minska utsläppen från byggtransporter med förbättrad logistik baserat på ett systemsynsätt. Projektet har utgått från tre frågeställningar: (i) Vad är potentialerna med samordnad bygglogistik och vad krävs för att hämta hem dessa? (ii) Vilka metoder/lösningar är användbara för att nå målet om fossilfrihet? (iii) Vad är rollfördelningen mellan aktörer. som är delaktiga i ett bygglogistiksystem, och behöver den förändras för att uppnå fossilfrihet; Transportation accounts for about 10% CO2-emissions caused by construction projects and improved logistics leads to lower emissions, less congestion and lower costs. The project Fossil Free Construction Logistics, financed by the Swedish Traffic Administration through Triple F, has between 2019 and 2021 studied the potential of reducing the emissions from construction transports, through improved logistics, based on a systems view. The project has worked with three main questions: (i) What are the potentials of coordinated construction logistics? (ii) What methods and solutions are suitable to reach the goal of fossil free construction logistics? (iii) What actors are part of the construction logistics system and what can these do to decrease the emissons from construction logistics?

There is a lack of feasible managerial tools to support companies in their greening initiatives. The objective of this paper is to propose a tool - Green Karma - for monitoring and proactively managing initiatives for environmental sustainability. We present findings from an action research project involving two freight transport companies. The tool is based on Quality Function Deployment but has been adapted to capture various dimensions of environmental efforts. As goals, in traditional QFD labelled as customer needs, we applied national environmental goals, thereby widening the scope of the customer to a societal perspective. Regarding the means, traditionally labelled as functions, we instead documented greening initiatives in the companies and applied them in the tool. Using the Green Karma tool resulted in increased pro-activity. New initiatives were taken among the companies. Furthermore, a more structured approach and firm commitment to realise ideas were observed. Thus, the tool has shown its potential to increase the pace of greening the companies operations and strategies. QFD has previously been used to analyse and prioritise environmental activities but it has not been used before as a proactive tool for driving and implementing environmental initiatives. In this paper, such an application is presented., Funding Agencies|Kamprad Family Foundation for Entrepreneurship, Research Charity

Purpose Implementation of fossil free fuels in the supply chain requires the involvement of multiple actors, each of which have different drivers and barriers undergoing the switch. The aim of this research is to begin to explore these drivers and barriers additionally how they relate to each other across the different actors. Design/methodology/approach A multiple case study was performed, interviewing multiple representatives from each actor. The drivers and barriers from the respective actors were compared across the actors in the network Findings The study is ongoing however some findings may be suggested. Among others, some drivers and barriers identified were customer demands, available infrastructure, and financial costs. Research limitations/implications While there are multiple possible fossil-free fuels to be used in the future, this research looked deeper into the implantation of biomethane. Future research conducted could investigate the drivers and barriers of other fossil-free alternatives. Practical implications Understanding the impact from drivers and barriers for each actor in the network during the initial implementation of a fossil free fuel will allow further organizations to properly prepare for the switch. Original/value Little research on fossil free fuel use has been completed from the perspective of certain actors, namely the haulier and forwarder. Studying these previously understated actors help in moving forward towards a more comprehensive understanding of the network.

Purpose: One ambition of organizations is to create and provide value to its stakeholders. As more and more customers are demanding environmentally sustainable freight transport, it is becoming a valuable service for a freight forwarder to provide. Some companies experience better success in offering this service to customers than others despite operating in the same infrastructure and regulatory circumstances. The aim of this paper is to describe different business practices utilized by the freight forwarder when providing value to its stakeholder by offering fossil-free transport. Research Approach: The research was conducted through a series of interviews including five actors representing the focal actor – freight forwarder – and its primary stakeholders. The analysis takes stance in stakeholder theory, which was used as a framework for understanding relationships, influence, and interactions with the freight forwarder as the focal organization. Findings and Originality: Analysis is ongoing, however preliminary findings can be shared. Four overarching business practices were identified: collaboration, pricing, workplace culture and pursuit of a circular economy. Primary stakeholders were identified as well as secondary, and their influence on the focal actor and its business practices is described. Once the analysis is completed results and discussion on value provision (if any exist) through these four business practices will be available. These findings reveal how a shift of technology – in this case the energy source – may shape future sustainable freight transport with consideration to multiple actors and their business practices. Research Impact: This paper plans to build upon previously written stakeholder theory literature and its theory development. Additionally, the paper will explain the role of business practices and the subsequent stakeholder value development via offering fossil-free freight transport, which historically has been an overlooked to

In engineering programs, systems thinking capability has been promoted for a long time. The capability of students to apply various systems thinking approaches is not only supported by educational staff, but also highly required by various employers. The aim of the study is to investigate the inclusion of systems thinking aspects in the Mechanical Engineering program at Linköping University. Two research questions address this aim. According to involved teachers, (1) What aspects of systems thinking are included in the Master Program in Mechanical Engineering?, and (2) What teaching and learning activities concerning systems thinking are included in the Master Program in Mechanical Engineering? Empirical data was gathered through focus group interviews with involved teachers from two Master profiles. The results indicate that systems thinking is present in the respective Master profiles, however not explicitly communicated with the students. Systems thinking is often coupled with disciplinary knowledge, which supports CDIO standard 3. Some examples of how systems thinking is taught relating to disciplinary knowledge (CDIO standard 7) were presented by the teachers. Examples of teaching activities specifically aimed at systems thinking were however missing, alongside examination of systems thinking in particular.

The growing awareness of climate impact from combustion has triggered massivedevelopment efforts towards fossil fuel alternatives. The main future alternative appears tobe electrification, which directly reduces tailpipe emissions. However, for freight andlogistics - in particular heavy and long-haul transportation - electrification will be slower thanfor passenger transport. At the same time, we need to act fast and promptly to reduceemissions from fossil fuels. In this context, the alternative of biomethane (vehicle gasproduced from anaerobic digestion of biowaste) surfaces as a climate-wise very interestingoption. Proponents even suggest that biomethane can entail a positive climate impact,depending on its origin. Albeit, the transformation from traditional combustion technologyto gas technology comes with a range of challenges as well as opportunities for actors in thesupply chain. This paper aims to explore these challenges and opportunities through astakeholder perspective.

Research Question & Brief Overview: Importance of the logistics industry has developed dramatically with the globalization of economies thereby raising the stakes of creating and implementing sustainable business practices across all actors within the logistics industry (Centobelli et al., 2017). Many modes of transportation are still reliant on fossil fuels. As road transportation consistently is responsible for the majority of the transportation industry’s emissions in the European Union, stakeholders have focused on methods and alternatives to decrease the amount of emission (Pieters et al., 2012). These methods and alternatives are known as Green Logistics Practices (GLPs) vary in technology, innovation and motivation thus providing varying results of carbon emission decrease. The purpose of this study is to summarize the research currently represented in published literature discussing green practice options in freight transport and logistics exploring the possible implementation of fossil-free fuels. With this background and current challenge, the researchers posed the following research questions: (RQ1) Which GLPs are used and suggested for designing more environmentally sustainable logistics systems? (RQ2) What challenges and opportunities lie in the use of fossil-free fuels for increasing the environmental sustainability of freight transport in a supply chain context? Method: This study contains two parts: systematic literature review and exploratory semi-structured interviews. The systematic literature review has been completed while the interviews are still ongoing. It is planned to present the study in its entirety at the National Transport Forum. To support the discussion and further understand the implications of large-scale use of fossil-free fuels, the specific choice of using biomethane was selected. Several exploratory, semi-structured interviews were held with stakeholders who either utilize biomethane in their operations or pr

Purpose: Efficient interaction between actors within supply chains is crucial for their effectiveness. It could be argued that a certain degree of alignment between the different actors’ business model is a prerequisite for the success of interaction. The purpose is to explore how business model alignment between different supply chain actors is described and analysed in the context of Supply Chain Management (SCM). Design/methodology/approach: A systematic literature review on business models in the context of SCM was performed. Based on holistic meta-business model (Kindström, 2005), the findings were analysed with respect to the business model and to the supply chain. Findings: The findings confirm that business models in the context of SCM is a relatively unexplored area, and that the topic has been addressed in a wide variety of journals.In relation to the supply chain, alignment is discussed between buyers and suppliers, between actors in the transport provision chain, between the supply chain and the transport provision chain, and internally. Overall, alignment between buyers and suppliers is confirmed as positive for supply chain performance. Research limitations/implications: The results provide bases for further research into more focused areas within the business model frame. In particular, the connection between transport provision and their suppliers –the automotive industry –is missing in the literature. Original/value: The business model concept is poorly addressed with the perspective of alignment. Research into business model alignment can contribute to literature on strategic SCM.

Purpose: Lately, some e-commerce retailers have started displaying climate labels – i.e., eco-labels focusing on greenhouse gas emissions – on distribution or fulfilment alternatives in the check-out of the online store. Using actual purchase data, the purpose of this research is to understand the impact of climate labelling on customers’ choice of fulfillment. Design/methodology/approach: We analyse six months of customer checkout data from a market-leading pharmacy in Northern Europe using a nested logit formulation. Findings: We find that climate labels have a large and significant impact on the probability that a fulfillment alternative is selected by the customer. Further, if the label is attached to a top alternative, it increases the probability that the alternative is chosen. We also find that preselection has a strong effect on the impact of climate labels. Research limitations/implications:We note that climate labelling seems to have a strong impact on customer behavior, it opens up several venues for further research. For instance, there may be other relevant ways to slice the data to bring additional insights. And as climate labelling from more “well-known” labels are being used in e-commerce, the impact might be different. Research limitations/implications: The results have implications for retailers and logistics service providers alike, by indicating both how the content of the fulfillment option and the display of the option in the check-out impacts the business. The results further underline the importance of coordination between retailers and logistics service providers to provide support to consumers. Original/value: Contrary to previous research into greening e-commerce distribution, this paper takes a quantitative approach to address green consumer preferences.

Efficient goods distribution is key to the success of e-commerce and can even be a means for retailers to stay ahead of competition. However, e-commerce distribution also has a negative environmental impact. In fact, e-commerce distribution is often the most inefficient and the least environmentally sustainable part of the supply chain (Gevaers et al., 2014; Mangiaracina et al., 2015). Given the rate of e-commerce growth, measures need to be taken to reduce the environmental impact from e-commerce distribution. Retailers are under pressure to act sustainably and are even suggested to have a responsibility to support consumers in behaving more sustainably (Wiese et al., 2015). Consumers are also vital to the challenge of improving environmental sustainability of e-commerce distribution (Buldeo Rai et al., 2019). They are often given a number of delivery options to choose from, and their choices affect the environmental impact. For example, consumers that are willing to wait a few extra days for their ordered products create better conditions for logistics service providers (LSPs), on which many retailers rely to execute the distribution of sold goods, to increase fill-rates of their vehicles and thereby decrease the environmental impact. For consumers to be able to make more environmentally sound choices of distribution, they need guidance when choosing delivery options. Providing such guidance constitutes a large challenge for retailers, as the most environmentally sustainable choice is far from intuitive (e.g. van Loon et al., 2015). In fact, retailers are largely dependent on other actors to succeed. For example, LSPs have the expertise related to the environmental effects of their logistics operations. As a retailer, taking on the challenge of offering green delivery options is often more complex than it would seem at first hand, since LSPs and retailers need to coordinate their respective networks and efforts. This paper takes an interaction perspective of this

The production of food can have large impacts on sustainable development in relation to various socio-ecological dimensions, like climate change, the environment, animal welfare, livestock epidemiology, and the economy. To achieve a sustainable food production system in Sweden, an integrated approach that considers all five of these dimensions, and all parts of the food production chain, is necessary. This paper systematically reviewed the literature related to food production in Sweden, especially in association with resource distribution and recycling logistics, and identified potential sustainability interventions and assessed their effects according to the five dimensions. Participation of stakeholders across the food production chain contributed with the focus of the literature search and subsequent synthesis. In general, there were synergies between the sustainability interventions and their effect on climate change and the environment, while there often were trade-offs between effects on the economy and the other dimensions. Few interventions considered effects on animal welfare or livestock epidemiology and few studies dealt with resource distribution and recycling logistics. This indicates that there is a need for future research that considers this in particular, as well as research that considers the whole food production chain and all dimensions at once, and investigates effects across multiple scales., Funding Agencies|FORMAS the Swedish Research Council for Sustainable Development [2017-02018]

Purpose In order for retailers to decrease environmental impact from logistics, there is a need for a better understanding of what can be done from a retailer perspective in their relationships with logistics service providers (LSPs). This paper aims to explore how retailers can learn in order to become more environmentally sustainable in their relationships with LSPs. Design/methodology/approach The paper is based on an in-depth, single case study of a Swedish retailer. The paper relies on learning theories, which are applied to the case study that is of longitudinal nature and covers a period of six years. Findings Findings indicate that there are different ways to learn in order to improve environmental sustainability in relationships with LSPs. Specifically, both single- and double-loop learning is of relevance. In terms of what can be learnt, the results suggest a number of different learning items that have potential to contribute to a decrease in environmental impact. Research limitations/implications This paper presents a first attempt to categorise different ways of learning for retailers who want to improve their environmental sustainability in relationships with LSPs. Deeper analysis is needed to understand if the learning items can be divided into more specific categories, such as different types of environmental practices (e.g. technological or managerial). Practical implications The results will provide retailers with a better understanding of how to take the next step in terms of greening their relationships with LSPs. Environmentally ambitious LSPs can, in turn, benefit from deeper insight into their customers’ internal work and take action based on this knowledge. Original/value Due to its longitudinal approach and the application of theory on organisational learning, this paper offers a novel perspective on retailers’ strive in increasing environmental sustainability in relationships with LSPs.

While the usage of process management within the freight transport industry is unknown and presumed low, it has been used within other sectors as an efficient approach for dealing with and fulfilling customer demands as well as environmental requirements. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how process management can enhance a customer focused greening in the transport and logistics sector. We present a literature review of the intersections of process management, freight transport and environmental sustainability. Furthermore, we conducted a case study of how two environmentally ambitious Swedish freight transport companies use process management to enhance environmental sustainability. We found that environmentally ambitious freight transport companies do not proactively use process management, and that workshops with topical experts and practitioners can be a way for introducing process management to enhance environmental sustainability in such companies.

The emerging awareness of climate threats and other environmentally related problems creates challenges for logistics. Greening logistics introduces various avenues to understand and improve logistics systems from an environmental perspective. Freight transport is part of, as well as a consequence of, the logistics system, where the environmental challenges cannot, and should not, be met at the cost of efficiency and competitiveness. During the last decade, research into green logistics has expanded and matured dramatically. From being in the outskirts of the logistics field, environmental considerations have become a more natural part of logistics research. This book provides examples of research performed by Swedish PhD students, and illuminates parts of the multifaceted area of green logistics research. The PhD students have each contributed with one chapter, in which they present their research in their own words. Greening logistics is aimed at various audiences: for students and teachers in universities and professional programmes – to facilitate the understanding of a complex, important, and emerging area; for business – to demonstrate green logistics’ important role, and provide inspiration and guidance for further development; for funding bodies – to demonstrate the strength of a joint funding initiative: the development of research competence at various universities; and for researchers – as inspiration and introduction to the area of green logistics.

Purpose: Environmental sustainability is of increasing importance. The Logistics Service Industry is of specific interest: its impact from mainly transports is still increasing. However, the sustainability of any company also includes a long-term prosperous business. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how a hauler, as an example of a logistics service provider (LSP), through approaching environmental sustainability from an overall strategic business perspective, can succeed long-term. Research Approach: The paper builds on an in-depth case study of a medium sized privately held LSP. The case was selected as it stands out compared to its competitors with respect to environmental engagement and long-term commitment to sustainability related issues. Starting from a framework based on RBT (Resource Based Theory), the case is analysed regarding how various types of resources and dynamic capabilities can contribute to sustainable competitive advantage. Findings and Originality: The case study illustrates how an LSP can put various resources to work and how resources can be combined. It is demonstrated that these combinations of resources are valuable, rare and perfectly inimitable, and that they to a high extent are well established in the company, and hence not rely in certain individuals. The cases study further demonstrates how an LSP can sense possibilities, seize opportunities and, when needed, reshape its business accordingly, and hence possess critical dynamic capabilities. This research contributes by analysing an LSP that, in contrast to most of its competitors, has succeeded in making its sustainable development a strategic asset. This asset reaches beyond the commonly acknowledged efficiency gains, and is an interesting example of how an LSP through its dynamic capabilities can gain a unique position. Research Impact: The strategic perspective through an RBT lens has previously been applied to LSPs mainly in survey based research. The results of this p