Systematic transformation of urban cold chain networks: From cross-regional dependencies to sustainable local excellence
Kewei Wang, Kekun Fan, Yuhong Chen, Zhengmao Li, Zhengmao Li, Zhengmao Li, Zhengmao Li
TL;DR
This paper presents a framework to improve urban cold chain logistics by transforming inefficient cross-regional systems into sustainable local networks, reducing costs and emissions while improving product quality.
Contribution
A novel hierarchical optimization framework that reconfigures cold chain networks to simultaneously improve economic, environmental, and service outcomes.
Findings
A 44.1% reduction in cost and carbon emissions was achieved in a real-world urban agglomeration.
Product freshness improved by 21.9% through the optimized network design.
Statistical analysis confirmed high significance (p < 0.001) and a Transformation Effectiveness Coefficient of 1.34.
Abstract
Urban agglomerations in developing regions face cascading inefficiencies in cold chain logistics, driven by structural dependencies on cross-regional distribution that generate excessive costs, carbon emissions, and quality deterioration. This study develops and empirically validates a systematic transformation framework that utilizes hierarchical optimization to reconfigure these inefficient networks into integrated, sustainable local systems. Our approach coordinates strategic facility location with operational vehicle routing, enabling emergent, system-level improvements that transcend conventional optimization. Empirical validation using 35 supermarket stores in the Hohhot-Baotou-Ordos-Ulanqab (HBOU) urban agglomeration demonstrates substantial, concurrent outcomes under practical conditions: a 44.1% reduction in both cost and carbon emissions, and a 21.9% enhancement in product…
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Taxonomy
TopicsUrban and Freight Transport Logistics · Food Supply Chain Traceability · Agriculture Sustainability and Environmental Impact