The main objective of logistics is to co-ordinate these activities in a way that it meets customer requirements at
minimum cost. In the past this cost has been defined in purely monetary terms. As concern for the environment rises,
companies must take more account of the external costs of logistics associated mainly with climate change, air
pollution, noise, vibration and accidents. This research project examines ways to reduce these externalities and
achieves a more sustainable balance between economic, environmental and social objectives.