The continued growth of e-commerce across Europe is reshaping urban logistics, with profound implications for environmental sustainability, social cohesion, and economic development. This chapter explores the expanding role of out-of-home (OOH) delivery solutions, particularly parcel pickup points (PUPs) and automated parcel machines (APMs), in creating more people-friendly and environmentally responsible urban logistics systems. It highlights how OOH delivery models not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions and urban congestion but also foster social connections, local employment, and support the growth of the circular economy. Drawing on recent data and the case study of SmilePickup, the chapter illustrates how innovations in data-driven logistics management and machine learning are optimizing last-mile operations. It also examines the critical role of collection points in facilitating furniture recycling, e-waste management, and sustainable product returns. Ultimately, the chapter argues for a balanced logistics model that combines technological innovation with community engagement to build greener, more inclusive urban logistics networks across Europe.

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Urban Collection Points for People-Friendly, Environmentally Responsible, and Circular Logistics

  • Sébastien Horemans

摘要

The continued growth of e-commerce across Europe is reshaping urban logistics, with profound implications for environmental sustainability, social cohesion, and economic development. This chapter explores the expanding role of out-of-home (OOH) delivery solutions, particularly parcel pickup points (PUPs) and automated parcel machines (APMs), in creating more people-friendly and environmentally responsible urban logistics systems. It highlights how OOH delivery models not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions and urban congestion but also foster social connections, local employment, and support the growth of the circular economy. Drawing on recent data and the case study of SmilePickup, the chapter illustrates how innovations in data-driven logistics management and machine learning are optimizing last-mile operations. It also examines the critical role of collection points in facilitating furniture recycling, e-waste management, and sustainable product returns. Ultimately, the chapter argues for a balanced logistics model that combines technological innovation with community engagement to build greener, more inclusive urban logistics networks across Europe.