ECOmile PROJECT

The last mile of delivery, which is the final leg of the journey from a distribution centre to the customer’s location, is often the most costly and resource-intensive part of the delivery process. It can also have a significant impact on the environment,due to the large number of vehicles on the road and the emissions they produce. Therefore, it is important to consider ways to minimise the environmental impact of last mile logistics, such as using electric or hybrid vehicles, consolidating deliveries to reduce the number of trips, and using more efficient routing methods. Additionally, using sustainable packaging and reducing unnecessary packaging also helps reduce the environmental footprint.

The ECOmile project will implement a variety of complementary activities. Partners will develop three educational results, which will be designed through field research, a report on best practices, and the design of two digital, interactive tools. To reach out to the target groups and test the quality of their project, partners will implement pilot activities and dissemination events. To increase users engagement, partners will develop a dissemination strategy and communication tools.

The project is addressed to workers involved in the last mile delivery sector, and wants to empower them with specific skills for ensuring sustainable
deliveries and cities. To do this, the project will develop open and innovative e-learning material accessible via a platform. The ultimate goal of the project is to develop a MOOC providing access to e-learning modules, evolutive contents and a serious game. VET providers will use these high quality learning resources to train the target groups (private and public Logistic businesses, Education and logistics policy making responsible entities, Research community and general public), on practical and innovative concepts related to sustainable last mile logistics.

The main objectives of this training program are to:

1. Raise awareness on the environmental impact of last mile logistics: VET trainers will educate their trainees on the importance of reducing the carbon footprint of last mile deliveries, and how to do it through more efficient routing and the use of alternative fuel vehicles.

2. Promote sustainable practices in logistics operations: VET trainers will promote sustainable practices in order to reduce environmental impact: consolidating deliveries, reducing unnecessary packaging and using sustainable packaging materials.

3. Improve efficiency in last mile logistics: VET trainers will increase awareness about the latest technologies and techniques that can be used to improve the efficiency of last mile logistics operations. This can help to reduce costs and increase the speed and reliability of deliveries, ultimately leading to a more sustainable supply chain.

4. Enhance the skills and knowledge of logistics professionals: Educating VET trainers about last mile logistics sustainabilitycan help to enhance the skills and knowledge of logistics professionals, making them more valuable to their organisationsand more capable of driving sustainable change within the industry.