Advancing sustainable competitiveness in freight transport: An integrated framework with system thinking approach

Freight transport is central to economic vitality, yet a major source of congestion, emissions, and social externalities. Accordingly, the sustainability of freight transport systems is increasingly recognized as a vital element in global efforts to address climate change and improve urban livability. Building on a structured gap analysis, this paper advances the Integrated Freight Transport System Model (IFTSM) for Sustainability Competitiveness by (1) Embedding Reliability, Efficiency, and Attractiveness dimensions, (2) incorporating the Systems Thinking Approach by developing the Causal Loop Diagram, and (3) positioning the framework for future context-specific application. The framework offers a holistic structure that delineates system boundaries, defines key variables, and incorporates feedback loops to evaluate sustainability competitiveness. Phases 1 and 2 of the framework, focused on system definition and causal loop modeling, establish a conceptual foundation for future evidence-based sustainability competitiveness assessment. The proposed 12 feedback loops identify potential leverage pathways: (1) Reinvesting ROI into network quality to reduce congestion, improve safety, and cargo damage, elevating public acceptance, (2) Strengthening service quality to reinforce on-time delivery and demand, and (3) proper distribution planning to stabilize flows and capacity utilization. Once validated, the framework can be adapted to other regions through parameterization and stakeholder engagement.