Advancing circular logistics solutions in cities

Overview

Funding for consortia developing and piloting circular logistics solutions in urban environments, targeting freight transport inefficiencies, packaging waste, and resource use. Focuses on reusable packaging, reverse logistics, and stakeholder collaboration to advance climate-neutral city goals.

Who Can Apply

Consortia comprising at least three cities (each from a different eligible country), represented by local authorities or entities with explicit consent. At least one city must be among the 112 selected for the EU Mission on Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities. Other eligible applicants include logistics providers, retailers, research institutions, and technology developers.

Funding Details

Maximum grant amount: 12,000,000 EUR. Funding is provided as a lump sum.

What Is Funded

• Design and development of modular, reusable, and recyclable packaging/loading units for urban freight.
• Digital tools (IoT, AI, data-driven platforms) for tracking, optimising, and securing transport of loading units.
• Stakeholder engagement (local authorities, logistics operators, retailers, citizens) to co-design circular logistics solutions.
• Real-world pilots in at least two urban environments, covering two or more goods types (e.g., textiles, electronics), including reverse logistics and reuse schemes.
• Policy recommendations for regulatory frameworks and market incentives to support circular urban logistics.
• Collaboration with the Cities Mission Platform, CCRI, and CIVITAS initiatives.

Technology / Maturity Requirements

Projects must target Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4 to 6.

Key Dates

Deadline: 2027-10-06T22:00:00Z.

Application Process (High-Level)

Single-stage submission via the Funding & Tenders Portal. Proposals must adhere to page limits and layout specified in the Horizon Europe Work Programme General Annexes.

Post-Award Obligations

• Formal collaboration with the Cities Mission Platform, CCRI, and CIVITAS through a Memorandum of Understanding or agreement.
• Active dissemination of results and lessons learned via the Cities Mission Platform, CIVITAS, and CCRI websites.
• Clustering activities and coordination with other projects under this topic.

Geographic Scope & Language

Eligible countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Iceland, United Kingdom, Switzerland. Application language: English.

Notes

• Proposals must include provisions for collaboration with the Cities Mission Platform, CCRI, and CIVITAS.
• Pilots must demonstrate solutions in at least two urban environments, covering multiple goods types.
• Policy recommendations must align with local circular economy goals and broader urban strategies.