Freight transport decarbonisation and strategic procurement: a comparative analysis across Europe, China, and North America
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.14513/sbe.00634Keywords:
Carbon neutrality, CO₂ reduction, Cross region study, Decarbonization, Freight transport, Road freight, SustainabilityAbstract
Freight transportation is one of the most important contributors to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This study analyzes and compares how sustainability targets and practices are being implemented in road freight across three key regions: Europe, China, and North America. The aim is to evaluate the challenges, opportunities, and lessons learnt. Multiple approaches were applied: (1) a comprehensive literature review of sustainability regulations and technological trends; (2) secondary data collection from sustainability reports in the automotive industry; and (3) a primary survey distributed to international forwarders and service providers.
The results indicate that Europe is mainly driven by regulatory decarbonization with strong commitments to electrification and intermodal freight, though infrastructure gaps remain. China demonstrates fast and strong progress in electrification and digital logistics platforms but faces challenges in implementation across regions. North America shows slower regulatory adoption but strong industry-driven initiatives in efficiency and alternative fuels. Results from the questionnaire indicate that cost pressures, service reliability, and infrastructure readiness are the most well-known challenges, while collaboration and digital transparency tools are seen as key points toward sustainability.
The study outlines a potential strategic route that can give direction to political decision-makers and to industry leaders for creating strong procurement strategies and a stable base for creating and implementing sustainable solutions within the local and global supply chains. It is confirmed within the study that even though each region takes a different path, the key drivers of success are similar: using new technologies, working together across industries, and keeping government rules in line with market needs.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Anikó Richter, Csaba I. Hencz (Author)
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