Decarbonising transport and logistics
The transport sector plays a pivotal role in the global shift towards net zero. Under the leadership of Professor Philip Greening, this theme explores innovative methods to decarbonise transport and logistics. By integrating advanced agent-based modelling, data science, operations research, and behavioural change tactics, the research seeks to identify and implement the necessary technological and operational changes to drive sustainability in this sector.
Sustainable transport solutions will require a multi-disciplinary approach, incorporating the electrification of vehicles, the development of efficient public transport systems, and the exploration of alternative fuels like hydrogen. The work focuses on both industrial and consumer-level adaptations, ensuring that both logistics systems and everyday transportation become more environmentally friendly. This research aims not only to reduce emissions but also to enhance the resilience and efficiency of transport systems globally.
The application of these findings will contribute directly to the decarbonisation of major industrial supply chains, as well as everyday commuting systems, marking significant progress toward a sustainable transport future.
The Global Research Institute for Net Zero (iNetZ+) at Heriot-Watt University plays a pivotal role in fostering interdisciplinary research that addresses the most pressing environmental and societal challenges of our time. Through its innovative research themes, iNetZ+ encourages collaboration across our school-based institutes, integrating expertise from engineering, social sciences, and the natural sciences. This collaborative approach is further strengthened by partnerships with other global research institutes at Heriot-Watt, ensuring that our collective efforts push the boundaries of sustainable solutions for a net-zero future.
Our areas of expertise

Bridging the digital skills gap in logistics - Heriot-Watt's innovative approach
The logistics industry stands at a pivotal juncture faced with the unprecedented challenge of a widening digital skills gap

Heriot-Watt and Renishaw industry collaboration is shortlisted for prestigious engineering award
A research collaboration between Heriot-Watt University and Renishaw, a global engineering technology group, has been shortlisted for a prestigious UK engineering award.

Heriot-Watt joins forces with CGI to drive transformative sustainability solutions
Heriot-Watt University and CGI, a global IT and management consulting firm, have signed a memorandum of understanding.

UK transport decarbonisation hub secures £46 million from UKRI EPSRC and partners
The UK's new TransiT hub, backed by UKRI EPSRC and 67 partners, will lead the use of digital twins to rapidly decarbonise transport in the UK, including road, rail, air & maritime.
Related themes and projects

Harnessing green hydrogen
We're developing hydrogen production technologies, establishing new methods of transporting fuel and advancing storage solutions. Our researchers champion the use of hydrogen as a renewable energy source across industrial and domestic realms.

Manufacturing and industry
We're collaborating with industry to digitally map manufacturing processes. This approach will help to develop universally applicable solutions, enhancing sustainability across various sectors, such as the brewing and distilling industries.

Green business and finance
The non-technical facets of business and finance are pivotal in embracing transformation for a net zero future. We'll design groundbreaking models in harmony with social, economic, and political demands - smoothing the path towards a circular economy.