Mapping the Role of Active Transport in Sustainable E-Commerce Logistics: A Bibliometric Analysis

The growth of E-commerce has intensified Last-mile delivery challenges, particularly regarding emissions, congestion, and urban inefficiencies. Active transport modes such as bicycles, E-cargo bikes, and pedestrian couriers offer low- emission alternatives, yet scholarly research on their role remains fragmented geographically. This study conducts a bibliometric analysis of 150 peer- reviewed articles from Scopus (2010–2024), using VOSviewer and Bibliometrix (R) to examine performance trends, keyword co- occurrence, and citation linkages. Findings show rapid growth after 2020, driven by climate concerns and the COVID- 19 pandemic, with research concentrated in Europe. Key themes include cargo bikes, Last-mile delivery, and urban sustainability, while informal logistics and Global South contexts are underexplored. The study applies Sustainable Logistics Theory, Ecological Modernization Theory, and Socio- Technical Transitions to interpret gaps and trends. It calls for inclusive, tech- driven, and context- sensitive strategies to advance active transport in sustainable E-commerce logistics.