As e-commerce expands rapidly, urban delivery by petrol-powered motorbikes, trikes and vans is driving large increases in emissions, air pollution, and noise in cities globally. A UNEP-led initiative (Deliver-E) is promoting electric delivery vehicles (two- and three-wheelers, vans) as a compelling alternative: they can cut emissions by up to ~90%, reduce operating and maintenance costs, and offer quieter, cleaner urban environments.
Pilot projects like those in Quito, Ecuador, already show the benefits: lower carbon output, cost savings, and positive effects on both business and local quality of life.
