A model to reduce traffic, pollution and costs in urban distribution

Abstract

This paper presents a proposal to help metropolitan areas reduce traffic, pollution and also to cut delivery costs. The use of the collaborative logistics in the networking design for this fine distribution method shall allow the distribution partner to plan and execute deliveries, which will reducing the number of vehicles used in comparison with the regular distribution model (this also allows the use of a clean fleet of small vehicles – like electric minivans). The methodology used to develop the proposal is to simulate two different scenarios, comparing the variables that influence the traffic, the pollution emission and the cost involved with the distribution of goods in urban areas. Further to the variables considered in the study, this new model needs to prove its efficiency at service level. The conclusion of this study will compare those three variables between the regular model, where many different carriers need to reach the retail stores every day, delivering all kinds of products, with the proposed model, where only one carrier will do the deliveries in the urban areas.