DECARBOMILE CM7: advancing towards scalable decarbonised urban logistics

From April 20 to 22, 2026, the DECARBOMILE consortium gathered for its 7th Consortium Meeting (CM7), marking an important step as the project moves closer to completion.

Beyond a simple progress update, the meeting served as a moment to reflect on what has been achieved so far, to confront remaining challenges, and to shape the path towards long-term impact.

From experimentation to real-world application

Across Europe, DECARBOMILE Living Labs continue to test innovative solutions for low-emission last-mile logistics. What makes this phase particularly significant is the shift from controlled pilots to real operational conditions.

In cities such as Nantes, new delivery models combining cargo bikes, mobile hubs and digital optimisation tools are being explored. In Istanbul, the growing use of bike-based deliveries reflects a tangible change in logistics practices, despite ongoing operational constraints. Hamburg’s river logistics experiments, although limited by environmental and infrastructural factors, provide valuable insights into alternative transport modes. Meanwhile, Logroño is testing integrated solutions combining nano-hubs, lockers and urban consolidation, while exploring viable business models.

Together, these experiences highlight the diversity of urban contexts and the need for tailored approaches rather than one-size-fits-all solutions.

Preparing for replication and long-term impact

As the project enters its final phase, discussions are increasingly focused on what comes next. The question is no longer whether these solutions work, but how they can be replicated and sustained beyond the project’s lifetime.

The exchanges during CM7 underline the importance of adapting solutions to local conditions, involving stakeholders from the earliest stages, and allowing sufficient time for experimentation.

Looking ahead

The coming months will be crucial for consolidating results and demonstrating impact. Key milestones include the final event in Brussels on June 18, 2026 with GREEN-LOG.

CM7 confirms that the transition towards decarbonised last-mile logistics is well underway. The solutions tested within DECARBOMILE are no longer theoretical, they are operational, adaptable, and increasingly mature. The remaining challenge lies in ensuring that these innovations move beyond pilot projects to become lasting components of urban logistics systems across Europe.