Rapid urbanization in cities like New York City (NYC) has spurred an overwhelming surge in consumer demand, with a consequential 80% of deliveries now aimed at residential customers. Predominantly facilitated by trucks, which account for 90% of deliveries, this has detrimentally impacted air quality, traffic congestion, and overall life quality. In response, NYC has initiated the concept of micro-distribution centers or microhubs—spaces designed to transition deliveries from larger trucks to sustainable modes such as electric vehicles or cargo cycles.

New York City’s Office of Long Term Planning and Sustainability issued an updated version of PlaNYC, the city’s comprehensive long range plan to improve the environment and quality of life for future New Yorkers, in April 2011. Among many goals stated in the plan, the city aims to divert 75 percent of solid waste from landfills by 2030.1 A primary initiative identified to achieve this goal is to increase material reuse in the city.

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