Investigating determinants of port decarbonisation implementation using the lens of Implementation Theory

Abstract

This study argues that port decarbonisation is not only a technological challenge, but also an implementation issue. Hence, other determinants of implementation should be considered. Yet, the existing scant literature has never addressed this phenomenon. The purpose of this study is to provide insights about determinants of port decarbonisation implementation. The implementation theory (ImpThry) lens and port decarbonisation literature were reviewed and then both bodies of literature were cross analysed to demonstrate the applicability of ImpThry to port decarbonisation and identify determinants of successful implementation. Results have presented six constructs, i.e., implementation schemes, level of governance, interorganisational relationships, disposition and commitment of managers, capacities and economic conditions, and engagement with target groups, as determinants of port decarbonisations. Additionally, measurement items were identified, and several hypotheses were proposed. While the results presented a new conceptualisation based on ImpThry and paved the way of empirical investigation in future research, it also has managerial implications. The various demonstrated determinants inspire and direct the attention of port business managers and decision-makers to implementation pathways to achieve the decarbonation goal. Also, determinants draw attention to why port decarbonisation implementation succeeds or fails. While this is the first study that addresses this topic, it is considered as an extended application of the ImpThry in port decarbonisation. Nonetheless, the findings from this research make a desirable contribution to smooth port decarbonisation implementation.