Last but not Least: A Paradoxical Sustainability Exploration in Last Mile Delivery and City Logistics

As societal challenges increase and business practices evolve, this thesis invites readers to rethink sustainability in the context of last-mile delivery (LMD) and city logistics. It is a call to action for managers, policymakers, and researchers to engage in joint discussions and embrace a paradoxical approach to sustainability.
In an era of urbanization and e-commerce, the significance of LMDs and city logistics is pronounced. This thesis delves into the intricate world of LMD and city logistics, arguing that while LMD may be the final link in the supply chain, it is far from the least important. Amidst the surge of online shopping during the Covid-19 pandemic, LMD has soared to new heights, bringing with it a host of challenges. This delivery surge is crucial for e-commerce retailers and profoundly impacts cities and non-urban communities. The rise in delivery and city freight traffic brings with it a corresponding increase in emissions and a host of other challenges. These issues are particularly pressing at a time when sustainability is a key concern for city authorities, companies, and individual consumers alike. The growing focus on sustainability comes as society and businesses confront the stark realities of climate change, biodiversity loss, and numerous other grand societal challenges. These challenges often present contradictory demands on various business sectors, making it essential to find a balance that addresses both environmental and social sustainability. As such, the role of sustainability in LMD and city logistics is becoming ever more critical, requiring innovative solutions and collaborative efforts to mitigate impacts.
Through the three essays in this thesis, the research examines the multifaceted nature of sustainability in LMD and city logistics. Essay 1 highlights the managerial focus on emission reduction and calls for a broader, paradoxical framing of sustainability. Essay 2 integrates discussions on tensions across individual, organizational, and systemic levels, emphasizing their interconnectedness and impact on sustainability. Essay 3 addresses the role of cities in sustainable logistics, exploring the power dynamics and ambiguities that shape their involvement. This thesis proposes a paradoxical understanding of sustainability, where seemingly conflicting elements must coexist. It explores how organizations can approach LMD and city logistics while embracing broader sustainability goals beyond emission reductions. The thesis emphasizes the need for a paradoxical approach to sustainability, considering both environmental and social aspects and the importance of power dynamics in achieving sustainable LMD and city logistics. It argues that true sustainability in LMD and city logistics requires acknowledging and addressing the tensions and contradictions inherent in these contexts. Doing so opens the door to more inclusive and effective sustainability practices that integrate environmental, social, and economic dimensions.