The long last mile

摘要

Back when he was head of Transport for London, Sir Peter Hendy described the freight and logistics industry as one of the most pleasant surprises of his career, praising their often remarkable handling of a complex task under very tight margins. Despite this, van and lorry drivers are often the forgotten road users, and seem to be more criticised than supported. Fresh research from the Independent Transport Commission (ITC] notes that while urban freight is a fundamental part of the functioning of a city, it brings with it a range of 'negative externalities, such as increased congestion, poorer air quality, noise pollution and an increased risk of accidents'.