Montpellier

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

  1. Stakeholder Selection: Identify producers, processors, and associations needing transport services through a call for tenders.
  2. Transport Provider Selection: Engage a transporter to procure and operate a biofuel-powered vehicle.
  3. 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.

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