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Environmental impacts and energy transition in Chinese logistics: An N-Spheres multi-criteria decision-making

Author

Listed:
  • Tan, Yong
  • Chen, Zhongfei
  • Antunes, Jorge
  • Wanke, Peter

Abstract

This paper presents the N-Spheres geometrical concept as a novel Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) model to evaluate environmental impacts and energy transitions in logistics transportation across Chinese provinces. By incorporating data such as truck quantities, logistics network mileage, fixed asset investments, and energy consumption, the study creates an n-dimensional framework to assess logistics systems' energy efficiency and CO2 emissions. The adapted N-Spheres model, originally from theoretical mathematics and computer science, is applied to analyze trade-offs, criterion elasticity, and contributions to overall performance, linking economic activities to environmental impacts. The findings reveal significant regional disparities in Environmental, Energy, and Transport Logistics (EETL) performance, with coastal regions typically outperforming inland areas. Higher freight transport volumes and logistics network mileage enhance performance, while CO2 emissions and energy consumption highlight the need for improved environmental management. Overall, the results indicate a trend towards better logistics performance over time.

Suggested Citation

  • Tan, Yong & Chen, Zhongfei & Antunes, Jorge & Wanke, Peter, 2025. "Environmental impacts and energy transition in Chinese logistics: An N-Spheres multi-criteria decision-making," Energy Economics, Elsevier, vol. 148(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:eneeco:v:148:y:2025:i:c:s0140988325004955
    DOI: 10.1016/j.eneco.2025.108668
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