Deliverable 1.1 “Needs Analysis of Relevant Stakeholders for the European Multimodal Transport Network” outlines the key challenges impacting the European multimodal transport network, as identified in the needs analysis conducted by FIR an der RWTH. The analysis explores the complexities within the transport sector, with a particular focus on the challenges in data management, system interoperability, and infrastructure limitations.
The multimodal transportation network faces numerous challenges, especially during disruptions, which can be divided into two main layers: the physical layer (infrastructure and capacity) and the information layer (data management and communication). The information layer often poses more significant issues, primarily due to poor data sharing and management, which outweigh the challenges posed by the physical layer. Key challenges include:
- Socio-economic factors: Economic pressures, high operational costs, and a shortage of human resources in logistics affect overall efficiency and increase delays in the supply chain.
- Technology: Data quality is a major concern, with outdated, inaccurate, or incomplete information leading to inefficiencies. Inadequate data sharing and a lack of standardisation across systems also cause delays and misallocations of resources, further hampering operations.
- Regulatory factors: The lack of uniform regulations across regions and transport modes creates complex bureaucratic hurdles, particularly for cross-border transport. Inconsistent regulations lead to increased costs, delays, and operational complexities, especially during disruptions.
- Infrastructure-Related Factors: Overburdened infrastructure, especially in areas like rail transport, creates bottlenecks, delays, and reliability issues. The vulnerability of certain networks (e.g., rail) amplifies the impact of disruptions on the supply chain, while inadequate capacity management can leave resources underutilised.
A recurring issue throughout these challenges is the difficulty in sharing data effectively. Many stakeholders withhold or fail to share data due to competitive reasons or lack of trust in collaborative models, leading to inefficiencies in coordination and planning.
ReMuNet addresses these key challenges in the transportation and logistics sector, focusing on the information layer where issues like poor data quality, system interoperability, and lack of transparency are most prevalent. ReMuNet aims to resolve these challenges by providing digital solutions that improve the efficiency and resilience of multimodal transportation networks. These solutions include:
- Standardised data formats: By adopting standardised formats, ReMuNet enhances communication and connectivity among stakeholders, facilitating smoother data exchanges.
- Advanced algorithms: ReMuNet uses sophisticated algorithms to optimise routes and manage capacity, making it possible to adapt to disruptions in real time and improve operational efficiency.
- Collaborative platforms: ReMuNet enables better coordination by providing collaborative platforms where stakeholders can easily share data, ensuring faster, more accurate decision-making processes.
- AI-Driven decision making: By leveraging AI, ReMuNet enhances the flexibility and resilience of the transportation network, improving the network’s ability to respond dynamically to disruptions and unforeseen events.
Moreover, ReMuNet contributes to ecological sustainability by using various data analytics methods for dynamic route planning, reducing emissions, and promoting sustainability reporting. This enables stakeholders to track and reduce their carbon footprint, contributing to environmental goals and greater operational transparency.
ReMuNet not only addresses immediate operational disruptions but also fosters long-term sustainability and resilience within multimodal transport networks. Through better data sharing, system interoperability, and advanced digital solutions, it helps overcome infrastructure, technological, and regulatory challenges, enhancing the efficiency of freight transportation across road, rail, and waterways.
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Funded by the European Union under GA number 101104072. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA). Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.