Pregledni rad

Initiatives and Technologies for Smart Urban Logistics and Sustainable Cities

Luka Pavlović ; University of Rijeka, Faculty of Maritime Studies, Rijeka, Croatia
Mladen Jardas orcid.org/0000-0002-2696-8496 ; University of Rijeka, Faculty of Maritime Studies, Rijeka, Croatia
Adrijana Agatić ; University of Rijeka, Faculty of Maritime Studies, Rijeka, Croatia *

* Dopisni autor.

Sažetak

Rapid urban growth, the rise of online shopping, and increasing demand for fast deliveries are putting
significant pressure on city logistics, particularly on the “last mile” of delivery. These pressures
contribute to traffic congestion, higher emissions, and inefficient use of urban space. This paper
examines how smart urban logistics solutions can make city deliveries more sustainable. Such solutions
include the use of micro-hubs (small local distribution centers), consolidation centers, low-emission
delivery vehicles, digital technologies, and improved coordination between logistics planning and urban
planning. The study is based on a review of relevant literature, as well as examples from European
cities. It considers initiatives such as micro-hub networks, clean air zones, car-free city centers, and the
15-minute city concept, supported by selected data from previous studies. The findings demonstrate
that effective regulations and appropriate infrastructure can significantly reduce pollution and spatial
challenges associated with urban deliveries. When integrated with urban planning, digital technologies
such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Blockchain, and Digital Twins can
improve route planning, enhance transparency, and support better decision-making. However, smart
urban logistics also faces challenges, including high infrastructure costs, fragmented regulations,
technical complexities, and resistance from stakeholders. To address these issues, the paper proposes
a phased approach for implementing smart urban logistics solutions. Overall, the research concludes
that a successful transformation requires a comprehensive strategy combining urban planning, policy
measures, infrastructure development, digital technology adoption, cooperation between public and
private actors, and active citizen involvement.

Ključne riječi

smart urban logistics, digital technologies, urban planning, sustainability

Hrčak ID:

346320

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/346320

Datum izdavanja:

14.4.2026.

Posjeta: 146 *