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A Review on Intermodal Transportation and Decarbonization: An Operations Research Perspective

Madelaine Martinez Ferguson, Aliza Sharmin, Mustafa Can Camur, Xueping Li

TL;DR

This paper addresses decarbonizing freight networks through intermodal, multimodal, and synchromodal transportation from an operations research perspective. It conducts a systematic literature review of studies from 2010 to 2024, noting a notable surge in decarbonization-focused work after 2018 driven by regulation and technology. The integrated analysis categorizes work by modality mix, decision levels, emissions considerations, and OR techniques, highlighting trends such as the rise of synchromodality, stochastic and multiobjective formulations, and policy-oriented models using carbon pricing and life-cycle assessment. It identifies gaps in multistage stochastic modeling, terminal-operation dynamics, and emerging technologies like AI/RL and blockchain for collaboration and resilience, providing a roadmap for future research.

Abstract

This paper reviews intermodal transportation systems and their role in decarbonizing freight networks from an operations research perspective, analyzing over a decade of studies (2010-2024). We present a chronological analysis of the literature, illustrating how the field evolved over time while highlighting the emergence of new research avenues. We observe a significant increase in research addressing decarbonization since 2018, driven by regulatory pressures and technological advancements. Our integrated analysis is organized around three themes: a) modality, b) sustainability, and c) solution techniques. Key recommendations include the development of multistage stochastic models to better manage uncertainties and disruptions within intermodal transportation systems. Further research could leverage innovative technologies like machine learning and blockchain to improve decision-making and resource use through stakeholder collaboration. Life cycle assessment models are also suggested to better understand emissions across transportation stages and support the transition to alternative energy sources.

A Review on Intermodal Transportation and Decarbonization: An Operations Research Perspective

TL;DR

This paper addresses decarbonizing freight networks through intermodal, multimodal, and synchromodal transportation from an operations research perspective. It conducts a systematic literature review of studies from 2010 to 2024, noting a notable surge in decarbonization-focused work after 2018 driven by regulation and technology. The integrated analysis categorizes work by modality mix, decision levels, emissions considerations, and OR techniques, highlighting trends such as the rise of synchromodality, stochastic and multiobjective formulations, and policy-oriented models using carbon pricing and life-cycle assessment. It identifies gaps in multistage stochastic modeling, terminal-operation dynamics, and emerging technologies like AI/RL and blockchain for collaboration and resilience, providing a roadmap for future research.

Abstract

This paper reviews intermodal transportation systems and their role in decarbonizing freight networks from an operations research perspective, analyzing over a decade of studies (2010-2024). We present a chronological analysis of the literature, illustrating how the field evolved over time while highlighting the emergence of new research avenues. We observe a significant increase in research addressing decarbonization since 2018, driven by regulatory pressures and technological advancements. Our integrated analysis is organized around three themes: a) modality, b) sustainability, and c) solution techniques. Key recommendations include the development of multistage stochastic models to better manage uncertainties and disruptions within intermodal transportation systems. Further research could leverage innovative technologies like machine learning and blockchain to improve decision-making and resource use through stakeholder collaboration. Life cycle assessment models are also suggested to better understand emissions across transportation stages and support the transition to alternative energy sources.

Paper Structure

This paper contains 18 sections, 6 figures, 7 tables.

Table of Contents

  1. Introduction
  2. Chronological Analysis of Literature
  3. Early Interventions
  4. Development of New Concepts
  5. Advancement of Concepts
  6. Recent Developments
  7. Integrated Analysis of Literature
  8. Modality Analysis
  9. Sustainability Analysis
  10. OR Techniques Analysis
  11. Classification based on problem addressed:
  12. Classification based on OR techniques:
  13. Distribution of OR Techniques Across Different Problem Categories:
  14. Future Research Directions & Identified Gaps
  15. Conclusion
  16. ...and 3 more sections

Figures (6)

  • Figure 1: Classification of Publications by Transportation Modes
  • Figure 2: Number of Publications on Intermodal vs Multimodal Transportation Over the Years
  • Figure 3: Number of Publications Regarding Planning Decision Levels Over the Years
  • Figure 4: Publication Overview of Mixed Planning Decision Levels
  • Figure 5: Number of Studies By Carbon Emissions Consideration in OR Models
  • ...and 1 more figures