Decarbonization strategies in freight transport: a comparative analysis of european regional policies and implementation practices

Abstract The environmental imperative of reducing carbon emissions by 2050 and seeking energy diversification has forced the transport and logistics sector to consider how these demanding objectives can be secured and how new environmental practices can be implemented. This paper aims to review and classify the mechanisms and the methodologies applied, mainly in the European Union, to achieve sustainable goals in freight transportation. The paper covers aspects like partnership strategies (including vertical and horizontal cooperation), intermodal freight transport actions, government policies, alternative fuels, electric and autonomous vehicles, and technological innovation measures for developing less pollutant engines. To analyze the practical implications of these mechanisms, we revisit two public sector examples in Navarre (Spain). A comparative analysis with regions such as Lombardy, South Holland, and Aquitaine highlights transferable practices and contextual challenges, offering targeted guidance for stakeholders. The paper concludes with recommendations and open challenges for integrating sustainable practices into freight transportation systems.