Can low emission zones be managed more dynamically and effectively?

Cities in Europe are introducing green zones, or low emission zones, with the purpose of improving the local environment for residents and travelers. The research project Green Activity Zones (GAZ) presents a technical concept on how charging for driving within a low emission zone can be based on the vehicle's real activity inside the zone. The amount to be charged is computed as a function of continuous measurements of emissions from the vehicle. The purpose of this paper is to investigate stakeholder influences on decisions in the urban distribution chain, and their potential responses to the GAZ regime. These issues are investigated by surveys conducted among retailers, wholesalers and carriers. The surveys show great variations between stakeholder groups regarding the influence over transport and logistics decisions, and that their individual influence largely determines potential stakeholder responses to the GAZ regime.