Integrated Transport and Logistics

Transport is at the heart of some of the most significant societal grand challenges. While advances in technology have simplified movement around the world, increased levels of commuting have impacted on economies, the environment and public health.

Effective transport systems are key to European businesses looking to compete in the world economy, and European freight transport activity is projected to increase by over 80% (from 2005 levels) by 2050.

Statistics from the European Commission show that road congestion costs Europe about one percent of gross domestic product (GDP) per year. In the UK alone, it is estimated that transport problems cost the economy £45 billion a year, and the overdependence on personal, motorised forms of public transport are unsustainable and fuelling ill health.

The movement of goods, data and services therefore require new and innovative solutions to improve costs, productivity and the impact on the environment.

Addressing these issues needs a multidisciplinary and holistic approach – one that places people at the heart of the solution.

While there are many studies into the operational side of travel, Coventry University is committed to focusing on the user experience and discovering how this influences the methods and reasons for personal travel and the transportation of goods.

To achieve a better passenger experience and increase the use of public transport, a seismic societal shift needs to take place. This will mean creating new high-quality, better-connected living spaces and using technology to improve the way we move goods and people.