Decarbonizing last-mile logistics: A life cycle and just transition perspective

Emissions from logistics and last-mile delivery represent a growing share of global greenhouse gases, fueled by e-commerce expansion and rising demand for rapid delivery. While decarbonization is essential, existing efforts largely prioritize technological and operational solutions, leaving their broader socio-environmental implications underexplored. This study conducts a systematic literature review to define what decarbonizing last-mile logistics entails and to identify the practices most frequently proposed to reduce emissions. Building on life cycle thinking as an integrative analytical lens, the analysis reveals how these practices, while reducing carbon emissions, may also generate unintended socio-ecological effects through shifting burdens across supply chain stages. To address these side effects, the review integrates the concept of a just transition, reframing decarbonization beyond efficiency and technological gains toward socially equitable and environmentally comprehensive pathways. The findings contribute by (1) mapping patterns of decarbonization practices across disciplines, (2) showing how life cycle thinking uncovers hidden side effects, and (3) advancing just transition as a conceptual and policy framework to guide last-mile logistics toward climate mitigation that is both effective and fair.