Innovative approaches to intermodal transportation in response to climate change and energy challenges

Abstract

The study aims to substantiate innovative approaches to intermodal transportation as a tool for adapting the transport system to climate change and energy challenges, to identify the potential of electrification, alternative fuels and digital solutions and to develop recommendations for the phased implementation of these technologies in national and regional corridors. Methods. The work combines a systematic analysis of existing rail-road, river-rail and high-speed lines schemes with the identification of critical nodes, a quantitative assessment of innovations based on real-world case studies with a focus on CO₂ emissions and energy consumption, as well as a SWOT analysis of the results obtained to identify strengths and weaknesses, opportunities and threats to their implementation. Results. The case analysis confirmed that combined schemes increase efficiency on highways over 300 km, and water and high-speed corridors add flexibility to the network. It was found that electrification of rolling stock significantly reduces the need for diesel, and partial replacement with biodiesel and the use of «green» hydrogen open the way to virtually emission-free transport in limited areas. It was shown that digital platforms allow real-time synchronization of operations, reducing downtime and losses due to data discrepancies. SWOT analysis showed that the most critical barrier is the initial investment and the lack of uniform standards. At the same time, state support programs and international agreements create favorable conditions for developing «green» initiatives. A roadmap has been developed, including pilot projects on priority corridors, gradual expansion to regional networks taking into account local conditions, and the introduction of constant monitoring of key indicators. Normalizing technical and information standards, creating a coordination center for «green corridors», and attracting public-private partnerships to finance charging and hydrogen infrastructure are recommended. Conclusions. Thus, the proposed solutions have already shown their effectiveness in pilot projects and have a high potential for scaling up. Implementing these recommendations will contribute to a significant reduction in emissions and an increase in the energy efficiency of the transport system. Further research should focus on the economic assessment of the sustainability of innovations in the context of volatile energy prices and on the development of adaptive protocols for responding to extreme climate events.