Sustainable FLM transport based on IPF transport by ferry in coastal rural areas: A case from Sweden

Journal article, 2023

With the increased emission requirements in Europe over the past century the role of Integrated Passenger and Freight (IPF) transport for sustainable first- and last mile (FLM) transport have increased. IPF transport by ferry has the potential to increase sustainability in FLM transport in coastal rural areas. A literature review followed by a single case study was conducted to examine six core elements of IPF transport by ferry for improvement of environmental, economic, and social- sustainable FLM transport in a Swedish coastal rural areas. In addition to the literature review, empirical data was collected from a total of 346 semi-structured interviews with passengers (i.e., visitors, tourists, residents), goods owners and policymakers, observations (at ferries, piers) and a hackathon. The study show that environmental sustainable FLM transport could be improved by increasing usage of free capacity in ferries, and improved planning of the IPF transport by ferry. The study indicate improved environmental sustainable FLM transport linked to introduction of electrical ferries for IPF transport. Economic sustainable FLM transport related to the long-term viability of IPF transport by ferry could be improved by enhanced compliance between traffic planning programs and the execution of FLM transport in coastal rural areas, and adjustment of passengers' one-way ticket fare of IPF transport. The study suggest introduction of modul-based ferries to improve economic sustainability of FLM transport based on IPF transport by ferry. To improve social sustainability of FLM transport, safety risks in IPF transport of bicycles, management of freight and passengers at piers, accessibility of passengers and goods owners at piers should be considered. The study indicate improvement of social sustainabiltility related to accessibility of passengers and goods owners at piers.