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An intermodal transport network planning scheme considering carbon emissions

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  • Guo, Quanlin
  • Yin, Chuanzhong
  • Zheng, Shiyuan

Abstract

Intermodal transport plays a crucial role in mitigating carbon emissions within the transportation sector. This study introduces an intermodal transport network planning scheme to optimize the efficiency and energy consumption across transport systems. A multi-objective 0–1 programming model is developed, focusing on minimizing total transportation cost, carbon emission cost, and overall transportation time. Several feasible planning schemes are obtained using the NSGA-II algorithm. Discrete simulation is employed in this study to assess the operability of each scheme through a virtual intermodal transport simulation model. This paper takes the Yangtze River Delta as a real-case study for planning and evaluating the intermodal transport network. Our findings include: (1) The rail-water transport scheme is the most operable; (2) Network functionality decreases when the number of transshipment nodes increases; (3) Enhancements in carrier speed and capacity contribute positively to network reliability; (4) Improved port handling efficiency can alleviate transport congestion and enhance transshipment efficiency. The overall efficiency of an intermodal transport network can only be significantly improved when the speed and capacity of carriers, as well as the efficiency of the transshipment machinery, are synergistic. This paper aims to provide valuable insights for the planning and evaluation of low-carbon transport networks.

Suggested Citation

  • Guo, Quanlin & Yin, Chuanzhong & Zheng, Shiyuan, 2025. "An intermodal transport network planning scheme considering carbon emissions," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 322(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:322:y:2025:i:c:s036054422501206x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.135564
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    References listed on IDEAS

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