Biomethane for Heavy Goods Transport: Exploring attitudes of freight operators in Europe

Valantasis, Nikolaos; Plant, Eoin; Zhang, Xu

Abstract

Purpose
This study investigates the attitudes and perceptions of European freight operators towards adopting biomethane-fuelled heavy goods vehicles (BM-HGVs), to support decarbonisation of road freight transport.

Design/methodology/approach
Employing a qualitative research design, the study utilises an augmented Human Organisation and Technology–Fit (HOT–Fit) Framework to elicit and evaluate antecedents to biomethane adoption. Thematic analysis of the transcript of semi-structured interviews with a sample of 14 diverse European freight operators resulted in a set of determinants influencing BM-HGV adoption.

Findings
Key determinants were categorised into five themes/constructs - technology, human, organisation, environment, and net benefits. These determinants include technical attributes of the Biomethane system, driver experiences, internal organisational factors such as size and culture, institutional environment pressure, and contributions to sustainability goals.

Research limitations/implications
The research, while insightful, is based on a limited sample. Future research could expand geographic coverage and employ quantitative methods.

Practical implications
The findings suggest strategies for sustainable technology adoption, highlighting impacts on business practices and the importance of policy support in infrastructure development.

Social implications
The study underscores the role of BM-HGVs in advancing corporate social responsibility and environmental sustainability in the logistics sector.

Original/value
This paper provides new insights into the adoption of biomethane technology in the freight sector, emphasising the importance of a multifaceted and collaborative approach to encourage sustainable practices.

Citation

Valantasis, N., Plant, E., & Zhang, X. (2024, June). Biomethane for Heavy Goods Transport: Exploring attitudes of freight operators in Europe. Paper presented at 36th NOFOMA Conference, Stockholm, Sweden

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (unpublished)
• Conference Name: 36th NOFOMA Conference
• Start Date: Jun 13, 2024
• End Date: Jun 14, 2024
• Acceptance Date: May 20, 2024
• Deposit Date: Jul 12, 2024
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Keywords: Biomethane, Heavy Goods Vehicles, Sustainable Logistics, Freight Transport, Decarbonisation