Centre for Supply Chain Research workshop explores Sustainable Multimodal Transport Systems in suburban areas
The School’s Centre for Supply Chain Research, in collaboration with ESG Consultants Limited, hosted a workshop on 18 September 2024 focused on the development of sustainable multimodal transport systems.
The event highlighted the latest advancements in suburban mobility and the last-mile challenge as part of the “ERGODIC: Combined passenger and goods transportation in suburb traffic” project.
As finding sustainable solutions to the last mile problem is crucial to turn the 15-minute city concept into a reality, the project seeks to develop an ambitious multimodal transport system with great potential to reduce the use of (or even replace) private vehicles with comparable services.
Led by Professor Dongping Song, Chair in Supply Chain Management, the workshop brought together researchers and industry leaders to share insights and examine innovative solutions to improve transportation efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
Presenters from both academic and business sectors discussed the progress of developing an integrated transport network combining electric modular vehicles, active micromobility (eg e-bikes and electric scooters) and advanced digital technologies.
Key speakers included Professor Dongping Song who introduced the ERGODIC project, Dr Ehsan Amirnazmiafshar, Postdoctoral Research Associate, who shared updates from the ERGODIC project, and Brendon Kenny, Director of ESG Consultants Limited, who outlined the practical applications and benefits of the new system.
During the workshop, stakeholders showed great interest in the proposed multimodal transport system, which aims to foster sustainable options for passenger mobility and freight logistics in suburban areas.
Relevant challenges and opportunities were discussed, allowing for a deep dive into the practical needs and future potential of such systems.
The feedback from stakeholders was invaluable in helping validate and refine the business model for the new transport system.
This input will play a key role in ensuring the system design aligns with real-world needs and expectations, promoting long-term success and scalability.
The workshop also provided participants ample opportunities to network, share experiences, and explore further collaborations. It served as a catalyst for building new relationships and fostering partnerships in sustainable transportation.
Reflecting on the event, Professor Song said, "The workshop was a successful event, bringing together diverse stakeholders passionate about the sustainability of cities and urban areas."
"Participants provided insightful feedback, which will be instrumental in refining the business model of our new multimodal transport system.
Their input has given us a clearer path forward, ensuring that our system aligns well with both market and public needs. This feedback lays the foundation for co-developing the new multimodal transport system."
Brendon Kenny, Director of ESG Consultants Limited, emphasised the value of the discussions, saying, “The insightful discussions and diverse perspectives shared will be invaluable as we continue to shape and develop this project."
The input has already sparked new ideas and approaches, and we look forward to applying these insights as we move forward.
We are excited about the future and are already planning our next workshop, where we will continue to collaborate on building the future of sustainable, integrated transport systems."
The workshop reinforced the University of Liverpool’s commitment to advancing research in sustainable transportation. The ERGODIC project is expected to bring lasting change to suburban mobility systems, with a pilot set to launch in Linz, Austria by 2026.