The escalating threat of climate change has made the decarbonization of global supply chains, multimodal transportation and international trade an urgent priority (Lee et al., 2024a). These logistics operations encompassing transportation, warehousing and distribution collectively represent substantial contributors to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (Trivellas et al., 2020). Consequently, they are now recognized as a strategic nexus for environmental action. The impetus to reduce GHG emissions emerges not only from tightening regulations but also from mounting public scrutiny and stakeholder demands (Shahzad et al., 2022). This special issue (SI) investigates how transformative strategies integrating digital technologies, renewable energy sources and process innovations can effectively minimize carbon footprints in logistics. Such strategies include leveraging life cycle assessment (LCA) principles, circular economy frameworks and AI-driven decision support systems (Lee et al., 2024b). Therefore, the sustainable supply chain initiatives can simultaneously optimize operational performance and advance societal well-being (Barros et al., 2021; Liu et al., 2021).
Yet, realizing carbon-negative logistics requires broad-based collaboration. Companies face formidable hurdles such as high upfront investments, infrastructure gaps, and inconsistent or incomplete policy frameworks across regions (Ekins and Zenghelis, 2021). Meanwhile, consumer pressure for sustainability continues to grow, prompting organizations to set net-zero or near-zero emission targets (Liu et al., 2023). Governments, trade associations and industry stakeholders must come together to design coherent, long-lasting solutions that span multiple levels of the supply chain, from raw material sourcing to last-mile delivery (Song et al., 2023). The SI aims to foster a deeper understanding of multi-stakeholder engagement to achieve meaningful and lasting decarbonization in logistics.
Decarbonizing logistics and supply chain networks
Logistics operations inherently span vast, interconnected networks, often crossing multiple national boundaries and regulatory environments (Trivellas et al., 2020). Addressing climate change within these systems requires reconceptualizing traditional business practices transitioning from cost-centered to sustainability-driven models. Companies adopting net-zero or near-zero emission targets are increasingly focusing on operational facets that include fuel consumption, mode optimization and green warehousing (Shahzad et al., 2022; Dong and Lee, 2020). One of the foundational pillars of decarbonized logistics is low-carbon transportation. Electric, hydrogen-powered and hybrid vehicles offer significant GHG emission reductions, but broad adoption is hindered by limited charging or fueling infrastructures, high technology costs and a lack of standardized regulations (Kuyumcu et al., 2024; Lee et al., 2023). Even so, success stories of localized pilots and government-backed initiatives exist, showcasing how tax incentives, research grants and public–private partnerships can facilitate adoption. For instance, certain port authorities provide subsidized electricity rates or install charging stations, mitigating the transition barriers for industry players (Lee et al., 2025).
Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, increasingly power logistics facilities, including warehouses, distribution centers and cold chain systems (Pouresmaieli et al., 2023). This shift can reduce the reliance on fossil fuels and fortify energy independence. The major challenges lie in ensuring grid stability and managing initial capital outlays for on-site energy production systems. Some logistics hubs, however, demonstrate how these investments can yield long-term savings, lower lifecycle costs and measurable carbon reductions (Barros et al., 2021). Digital transformation has the potential to revolutionize logistics by enhancing transparency, traceability and data-driven decision-making (Lee et al., 2024b; Gao et al., 2024). AI-driven tools can analyze massive sets of operational data to identify inefficiencies and proactively recommend greener routes or inventory management practices. Nevertheless, data integrity, cybersecurity and interoperability challenges remain, necessitating robust governance structures and technical standards (Upham et al., 2022). Cross-sectoral collaboration stands out as a cornerstone for sustainable logistics (Song et al., 2023). Decarbonization is not solely the responsibility of carriers or manufacturers; it extends to policymakers, community advocates, academia and international organizations shaping trade policies (Song et al., 2024). By aligning incentives and fostering mutual understanding, stakeholder coalitions can more effectively create seamless logistics solutions that respect environmental constraints while preserving competitiveness.
Key policy questions
Policy interventions play a defining role in shaping the pace and scope of logistics decarbonization. Policymakers face pressing queries, such as whether current incentive mechanisms—carbon taxes, subsidies for green technology adoption, or congestion charges—are sufficient to drive meaningful CO2 reductions (Ekins and Zenghelis, 2021). Equally crucial is determining how governments can partner with the private sector to finance large-scale infrastructure projects critical for alternative fuels and renewable energy. Another policy dimension involves harmonizing disparate regulatory regimes across borders. Global supply chains often operate under multiple jurisdictions, each with varying environmental standards. Achieving consistent decarbonization requires policy alignment and mutual recognition, allowing companies to implement uniform solutions at scale (Shahzad et al., 2022). In addition, policies promoting digital transformation like data-sharing standards or digital security regulations shape how effectively AI, IoT and blockchain can be deployed to monitor and optimize emissions (Lee et al., 2024b). Alongside these questions of governance, the circular economy has emerged as a complementary policy framework that incentivizes waste reduction, resource recirculation and product life extension (Barros et al., 2021). Integrating circular economy principles into logistics policy can reduce raw material consumption and cut emissions. Yet, policymakers must balance economic incentives with environmental objectives, ensuring that circular strategies align with broader decarbonization goals.
Lessons learned: summary of the papers
This SI features three papers, each offering unique perspectives on how logistics systems can progress toward decarbonization through innovation, policy and collaboration.
The first paper employs structural equation modeling (SEM) to identify the key determinants of green transport policy effectiveness (GTPE). Technological advancement emerged as a primary driver, alongside socio-economic and regulatory factors. The authors argue that policy tools—including incentives for electric vehicle use, infrastructural upgrades for low-carbon fuels and stakeholder engagement programs—are essential for achieving decarbonization targets in multimodal transport networks.
The second paper offers an in-depth analysis of decarbonization policies at Indonesia’s Tanjung Priok Port. It uses a system dynamics approach to evaluate the impacts of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) 2020 sulfur emission regulations on environmental performance and regional economic growth. Simulation results reveal that mandating low-sulfur fuels alone may reduce emissions but cause short-term economic setbacks. A combined policy package integrating shore power systems, free-trade zones and supportive infrastructure development, however, fosters a balanced approach that mitigates emissions while preserving economic vitality.
The third paper addresses India’s Public Distribution System (PDS) by proposing a model integrating road, rail and inland waterways to reduce costs, carbon emissions and social disparities. A triple-bottom-line perspective underpins the analysis, emphasizing that equitable access to food distribution and reduced environmental impacts are intertwined objectives. The study highlights how multi-modal freight corridors can improve efficiency and lower emissions, while also generating employment and social benefits in rural areas.
Collectively, these studies underscore the multifaceted nature of logistics decarbonization, where technology, policy and socio-economic considerations converge to shape long-term sustainability.
Future research agenda
Looking to the future, significant opportunities and challenges remain in accelerating logistics decarbonization. First, more comprehensive models are needed that account for climate risks, evolving consumer preferences and the socio-political contexts of supply chain operations (Trivellas et al., 2020). These models should integrate triple-bottom-line metrics to evaluate environmental, economic and social outcomes (Shahzad et al., 2022). Second, while alternative fuels and vehicles are pivotal, research must delve deeper into how large-scale infrastructure projects such as hydrogen fueling networks or renewable-based microgrids can be financed and governed across multiple countries (Song et al., 2023). Similarly, scenario-based studies could explore how policy mixes (e.g., carbon taxes combined with road pricing or low-sulfur mandates) influence both logistics efficiency and environmental impact over time (Lee et al., 2025). Third, digital transformation in logistics requires further scrutiny to gauge its full decarbonization potential. Future studies should evaluate the impacts of AI-driven route optimization, predictive maintenance and real-time sensor data within broader supply chain ecosystems. Issues of data interoperability, security and regulatory compliance remain critical, and cross-disciplinary research collaborations can illuminate how to address these complexities effectively (Liu et al., 2023; Gao et al., 2024). Fourth, collaborative governance models will be central to sustaining decarbonization momentum. Public–private partnerships, multilateral forums and regional alliances can shape finance mechanisms, knowledge transfer and standardized practices essential for building carbon-neutral or carbon-negative logistics systems (Kuyumcu et al., 2024). Innovative policy frameworks, such as green shipping corridors (Song et al., 2023), may further accelerate transitions by offering targeted incentives and internationally harmonized regulations. Finally, future research should strive to identify “win–win” scenarios that balance environmental imperatives with socio-economic outcomes. By embedding equity considerations—such as job creation, skill development, and community well-being—into decarbonization strategies, stakeholders can ensure that environmental benefits coincide with inclusive development (Shahzad et al., 2022). Such an approach can garner broader support for sustainability initiatives, enhancing their feasibility and long-term success.
By focusing on these core areas—comprehensive modeling, large-scale infrastructure, digital transformation, collaborative governance and equity—scholars and practitioners can advance the ongoing global conversation on logistics decarbonization. The papers in this SI provide a crucial starting point for these discussions, illuminating both the complexity and the necessity of building truly sustainable supply chains.
