New solutions for sustainable logistics and distribution in agri-food supply chains

WP 2.4 addressed logistics and distribution as structural determinants of sustainability within agri-food systems. While often considered operational support functions, logistics activities significantly influence environmental performance, product preservation and overall supply chain efficiency. The Work Package approached logistics not as a peripheral phase, but as a strategic component of food system resilience.

Research activities focused on two complementary dimensions: supply chain logistics and urban distribution systems. In the first domain, the work mapped and evaluated sustainable logistics practices across the agri-food chain. A systematic literature review, integrated with grey literature analysis and empirical engagement with companies in the Emilia-Romagna Food Valley, identified 185 sustainable practices. Comparative analysis highlighted differentiated adoption patterns between large enterprises and SMEs, revealing structural and organisational barriers affecting implementation capacity.

Environmental and economic impacts were assessed through quantitative modelling, with particular attention to network design and emissions from refrigerated warehouses — a relatively underexplored area in sustainability research. Results demonstrated that optimised logistics configurations can significantly reduce warehouse-related emissions, confirming the relevance of targeted infrastructure interventions.

A specific research line addressed food safety within logistics operations. High-speed, high-resolution X-ray scanners were developed and tested for real-time monitoring of product quality and conservation status during handling processes. Sensor optimisation enabled reliable performance under high-throughput operational conditions, contributing to integrated quality control in distribution phases.

The second dimension focused on local and urban logistics solutions. Literature analysis combined with qualitative interviews enabled the identification of 58 sustainable practices applicable to urban contexts. Simulation models showed that solutions such as cargo bikes for last-mile delivery and collaborative digital platforms can reduce emissions while improving operational efficiency.

Methodologically, WP 2.4 developed quantitative frameworks and replicable simulation tools for estimating CO₂-equivalent emissions associated with alternative logistics configurations. These modelling instruments constitute a transferable knowledge base capable of supporting environmental and economic decision-making across agri-food supply chains.

WP 2.4 demonstrated that sustainable logistics requires integrated evaluation of infrastructure, network design, technological innovation and organisational capacity. By combining empirical mapping, modelling and technological testing, the Work Package strengthened the analytical and operational foundations for low-impact distribution systems.