6 - Reverse urban logistics

Abstract

Reverse urban logistics is the process of managing the return flow of goods and materials from urban areas to their origin. It has become increasingly important on account of a range of factors, including the growth of e-commerce, environmental concerns, and changing of consumer behavior. Drawing on a review of the literature, that section starts by exploring the different types of reverse logistics used in urban areas, such as product returns, product recalls, and waste management. Also, this chapter discusses the challenges that companies face when implementing reverse logistics in urban areas, including issues related to transport, infrastructure, and regulatory compliance. The environmental impacts of reverse logistics, including reduced waste, decreased greenhouse gas emissions, and increased use of recycled materials, are also analyzed. Looking to the future, this chapter also explores the potential future trends in reverse logistics in urban areas, including the use of technology such as drones and autonomous vehicles and the potential for greater collaboration between different stakeholders in the supply chain.