EIFEL Project helps bpost achieve zero-emission deliveries in Brussels

Source: VUB Mobilise

The EIFEL Project established by VUB Mobilise in 2021 played a supporting role in enabling Belgian post operator, bpost, to achieve zero-emissions mail and parcel deliveries across Brussels earlier this year.

VUB Mobilise point out that there are numerous environmental, societal and economic benefits following the shift to electric cargo bikes and vans for urban freight.

The network of collection points was expanded, helping to reduce overall vehicle-kilometers. Moreover, a concerted effort to transfer delivery activities from electric vans to bike trailers has cut road accident impacts by 17%, and overall traffic congestion has been reduced, saving an estimated 566 hours per year.

VUB Mobilise researchers Koen Mommens and Joséphine Mariquivoi contributed to the outcomes of the EIFEL Project. Their work assessed the impacts of the transition, and engaged with postal staff to capture their views, helping to prevent any resistance and adverse effects during the implementation stage.

VUB Mobilise also examined consumer responses from 19 municipalities, identifying five distinct demographic groups and developing insights for targeted communication, policy design and future research into sustainable urban logistics.