Balancing economic and environmental strategies in regional hinterland transport: A dynamic network cross efficiency analysis

Abstract

Regional seaport hinterland transport network development strategies aim to maximize economic benefits while simultaneously mitigating environmental impacts. Tracking hinterland transport's environmental efficiency is crucial for monitoring and improving sustainable transport policies in regional seaports. Previous research mainly employs static self-assessment models under a single objective, overlooking multi-modal hinterland transport routes. This study introduces network cross-efficiency data envelopment analysis models to assess the efficiency of regional seaport hinterland transport, balancing economic and environmental strategies. We further employ the cross-efficiency global Malmquist productivity index to examine dynamic changes and emission reduction potential. We find that hub seaports advance faster than smaller seaports. Road-rail transport constantly showcases high efficiency. Hinterland transport's efficiencies under environment priority strategy show a weak positive correlation with balanced strategy, and a moderate negative correlation with economy priority strategy. Efficiency improvements in road and road-rail transport can be achieved through enhanced management, while technological innovation is key for road-inland waterway transport. The models and outcomes provide valuable insights for developing sustainable inland transport policies balancing economic growth and emission reduction in regional seaports.