A new method for assessing CO 2-emissions from container terminals: a promising approach applied in Rotterdam

Abstract

At present, the notion is generally accepted that societies have to combat climate change. The reduction of CO 2-emissions, an important cause for global warming, has become a priority, and consequently there is increasing pressure on governments and industries to come forward with initiatives to reduce CO 2-emissions. This is highly relevant for the transport sector, as the share of transportation is still increasing, while other sectors are reducing their CO 2-footprint. The main purpose of this paper is to present a methodology to analyse the CO 2-emissions from container terminals, illustrated by the Port of Rotterdam. The objective of this paper is twofold. Firstly, the development of a methodology to analyse and gain a better understanding of the CO 2-emissions by container terminals in port areas is described. Secondly, the most effective solutions to reduce CO 2-emissions by container terminals in port areas are identified. The study provides insight into the processes of container transshipment at the terminals and the contribution of these processes to the CO 2-emissions of the container terminals. Using these insights, potential solutions to reduce the CO 2 at the terminals are identified and policy proposals are made for the operators of existing terminals and for governments. The most effective measure for CO 2 reduction is undoubtedly the adaptation of the terminal layout as in the example of the Rotterdam Shortsea Terminal. This makes it possible to reduce the CO 2-emissions of the current terminals by nearly 70 per cent. The other perspective is the incorporation of mixing 30 per cent biofuels with the presently used diesel. This results in a reduction of CO 2-emissions by between 13 and 26 per cent per terminal and a reduction of the emissions of the total container sector by 21 per cent. On the basis of these findings, concrete recommendations are made to reducing CO 2-emissions at container terminals.