A stakeholder analysis of actors and networks for land transport of dangerous goods

Abstract

The consequences of an accident involving a truck or a train are often substantial, but the stakes increase considerably if the vehicle carries dangerous goods that can harm people, other living organisms, the environment, property and cause disturbances in the transport system. It is of great interest to shippers, transport providers and society at large to reduce the risk of such accidents and mitigate any consequences. The purpose is to identify and map the stakeholders of dangerous goods transport by land modes and analyse their interest and the relationships between them in order to increase transport safety. The research is based on a literature review, interviews and workshops and takes a wide approach, including actors commercially involved in transport, and rescue services, policy makers, regulating authorities, municipalities and citizens. Results include a mapping of actors, their influences and relationships in a three-level framework of transport infrastructure, transport network and freight flow and the traffic, transport and logistics service markets connecting them. Not only the traditional transport actors but also societal actors largely influence transport of dangerous goods. The mapping can be useful as a basis for improved information sharing between legitimate stakeholders to push the transport system towards safer transport of dangerous goods.