About the City
Montpellier, the 7th largest city in France, is a vibrant hub of innovation located in the Occitanie region near the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its dynamic economy, the city combines advanced research, agroecological practices, and a growing food and tourism sector to create a sustainable urban environment.
Main Objectives
This pilot focuses on:
- Decarbonizing local food circuits with low-emission transport solutions.
- Supporting local producers, processors, and food solidarity associations with sustainable logistics.
- Designing scalable, sustainable transport models for short food supply chains.
Innovative Technical Solution
The pilot uses a 7.5-ton vehicle powered by biofuel (Bio GNC) for deliveries. It connects local producers and processors to low-emission zones in Montpellier, improving logistics efficiency while adhering to environmental regulations.
Key features include:
- Optimized Delivery Routes: Designed in collaboration with stakeholders to ensure efficient last-mile delivery.
- Inclusive Transport Solutions: Providing affordable logistics services for stakeholders with low volumes and limited access to professional transport.
Key Stakeholders
- Local Producers and Processors: Gaining access to sustainable logistics for low-emission zones.
- Food Solidarity Associations: Receiving support for delivering food to vulnerable populations.
- MIN de Montpellier: Acting as the hub for the pilot’s logistics operations.
Implementation Strategy
- Stakeholder Selection: Identify producers, processors, and associations needing transport services through a call for tenders.
- Transport Provider Selection: Engage a transporter to procure and operate a biofuel-powered vehicle.
- Collaborative Route Planning: Optimize delivery routes from the MIN hub to downtown Montpellier with stakeholder input.
Expected Impact
- Environmental: Significant reduction in emissions through biofuel use.
- Economic: Affordable, sustainable transport solutions for small-scale producers and processors.
- Social: Enhanced access to food for vulnerable populations, fostering social cohesion.
By integrating innovative logistics and sustainable practices, Montpellier’s pilot advances its commitment to agroecological food systems and low-carbon urban solutions.