Towards sustainable logistics: a clustering-based analysis of global LPI and EPI scores with a focus on European Nations

Abstract Achieving sustainable logistics requires balancing economic performance with environmental responsibility, particularly in the context of global trade expansion and climate commitments. This study examines the relationship between logistics efficiency and environmental sustainability using k-means clustering based on the 2023 Logistics Performance Index (LPI) and the 2024 Environmental Performance Index (EPI) for 117 countries. While a global clustering framework is employed to provide a comparative baseline, the primary analytical and policy focus of the study is on Europe. A detailed assessment of 39 European countries reveals substantial intra-regional disparities in the alignment between logistics performance and environmental outcomes. The results indicate that European countries cluster into three distinct groups representing high, moderate, and low levels of combined logistics–environmental performance, with notable differences across both logistics and environmental sub-dimensions. These findings highlight the importance of region-specific policy benchmarking rather than reliance on global averages. Based on cluster-specific strengths and weaknesses, targeted policy recommendations are proposed in alignment with the European Green Deal, emphasizing infrastructure modernization, digitalization of customs procedures, low-carbon transport solutions, and biodiversity protection. Overall, the study provides evidence-based insights to support sustainable transport and logistics policymaking in the European context.