Port Sustainability Research Articles

The Role of Applying Artificial Intelligence in Improving Supply Chain Management and Sustainability: Evidence from Egypt Ports

This study aims to determine to what extent the application of AI could optimize supply chain management and contribute to the sustainability of Egyptian ports? Egyptian ports were selected to serve as an empirical study in this research, assessing their application of AI and their supply chain management. Interviews were conducted with a group of 7 managers from different Egyptian ports. The results of the interviews showed the main potential risks, ethical principles, and sustainability goals of applying AI to optimize the supply chain and thus ensure the sustainability of Egyptian ports. It also put forward suggestions and recommendations for overcoming these challenges and thus to formulate a comprehensive national AI strategy that aligns with both the sustainable development goals and the overarching vision of Digital Egypt (Vision 2030).

Circles of port sustainability: A novel method combining global comparability and local relatability in performance assessment

Ports are increasingly ‘greening’ operations to protect their ‘license to operate’ by integrating social-environmental considerations into their management and reporting on their sustainability performance. In this research, we develop a novel method for port sustainability performance (PSP) assessment that combines science-based knowledge with place-based contextualisation. Specifically, we address a recognised challenge of combining global (‘top-down’) techno-scientifically oriented indicators with place-based locally relatable (‘bottom-up’) contexts in sustainability performance, in addition to addressing limitations encountered in empirical verification. First, a critical evaluation of the international literature on port sustainability assessments is undertaken to distil commonalities in global performance indicators, and to identify typical frames used in the design of sustainability performance indices. We apply this learning, together with place-based experiential knowledge, to develop a science-based framework for a Port Sustainability Performance (PSP) Index that is explicitly aligned with the Sustainability Development Goals (SDGs). We then apply a co-design process to demonstrate local customisation of the index to derive place-based quantifiable measures and targets. Further, for easy-to-use empirical verification, a simple spreadsheet is applied to develop a flexible weighted scoring matrix. The matrix uses place-based rating systems for selected measures and associated targets, and aggregates allocated scores into informative outputs. Finally, the concept of Circles of Sustainability is adapted for ports to visually display sustainability performance, in alignment with related SDGs. This research contributes to bridging the science-practice divide in reporting on port sustainability performance.

Navigating challenges: leveraging Brisbane Port's success for Kolkata Port's sustainability

ABSTRACT This paper proposes a policy for the sustainable operation of Kolkata Port drawing lessons from Brisbane Port. The paper analyses the operational challenges of Kolkata Port, the successful case of Brisbane Port and formulates policy based on comparison. The analysis suggests upstream restoration projects, river boundary maintenance and modernisation of dredging activities for port operations. Also, it emphasises efficient sediment disposal methods and eco-friendly practices. The policy suggestions in this paper provide a practical roadmap for Kolkata Port Trust and other stakeholders to improve port operations. Implementation of these will lead to better navigation, cost reduction and environmental benefits. This paper contributes original thought by synthesising lessons from the Brisbane Port case study and applying them to Kolkata Port. The policy suggestions are tailored to address the unique challenges of riverine ports like Kolkata.

Achieving sustainable development goals through digitalization in ports

AbstractSustainable development is crucial to ports due to the interconnection between port activities, the economy, and the environment. This study aims to explore how port digitalization initiatives played the role of promoting sustainable development. To this purpose, the author/authors adopted a mixed methods approach using as database the World Ports Sustainability Program, which features 74 port digitalization initiatives. The first step focused on a quantitative analysis of the distribution of said initiatives in terms of sustainable development goals, followed by a thematic analysis to explore their contribution. The findings indicate that more than 72% of ports addressed sustainable development goals 8, 9, 13, and 17. Digitalization initiatives in ports have mainly focused on improving their infrastructure and operational performance, enabling them to address climate change challenges. This work also recognized the role that partnerships can play in achieving this goal.

International container intermodal competitiveness: An empirical study from Chinese hub ports

The global energy crisis and environmental degradation have prompted ports to strive for green transformation. Intermodal transport, as a green and efficient form of organization in the transport sector, currently has a lot of room for development. How can the competitiveness of intermodal transport be enhanced while realizing the green sustainability of ports? This study objectively evaluates the competitiveness of international container intermodal competitiveness of hub ports and analyzes the characteristics of 16 Chinese ports from 2011 to 2020. The obstacle degree model (ODM) and the panel Tobit model considering random effects are utilized to explore the complex multidimensional elements affecting the competitiveness of intermodal transport in ports. In addressing the imbalanced characteristics of intermodal transport in ports, a variety of augmentation pathways are devised using the dynamic multi-time period fuzzy-sets qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) method. The results found that: (1) The competitiveness of intermodal transport in ports shows a “three echelons” structure, requiring the implementation of appropriate augmentation strategies. (2) Elements affecting the competitiveness of intermodal transport in ports are multidimensional, underscoring the significance of holistically considering internal and external elements. (3) The key to enhancing the competitiveness of intermodal transport in ports lies in striking a balance between economic development and prudent attention to multiple dimensions to ensure sustainability. This study enriches the empirical research on intermodal transport in ports. It provides valuable references for ports seeking new avenues of growth and for governments with effective management practices.

Developing a Measurement Framework for Ethiopian Dry Port Sustainability: An Empirical Study

Developing a Measurement Framework for Ethiopian Dry Port Sustainability: An Empirical Study

Advancing port sustainability: Essentials for a model concession agreement framework

Concession agreements (CAs) in the port sector are designed to establish mutually beneficial arrangements for involved parties. They serve as catalysts, enabling ports to attract adept private investors and secure requisite funding to enhance port infrastructure, superstructure, and service quality. Concurrently, the imperative to mitigate negative externalities and promote sustainable practices in port organization and development remains paramount. In this context, the paper explores the nuanced landscape of CAs, specifically focusing on the urgent need for an innovative framework that integrates sustainability within port organization, operations and development. Drawing from existing academic discourse and field evidence, it systematically identifies, examines, and analyzes fundamental requirements and key factors that should be considered in CAs, in line with sustainable development and proposes a reference framework for an ideal Concession Agreement model. Despite evident strengthening of sustainability implications in port concessions, significant room for improvement persists. Nevertheless, dynamics in the field create a certain optimism for the future.

Fuzzy-Set QCA on Performance and Sustainability Determinants of Ports Supporting Floating Offshore Wind Farms

The present study explores the relationship between the characteristics, performance, and sustainability of ports that will, in the future, support the logistical chains of new floating offshore wind farms, considering the crucial advancement and expansion of the offshore wind energy sector for the transition to a low-carbon economy. Through a detailed analysis, which includes international case studies in America and Europe utilizing expert interviews and quantitative methods through surveys, the importance of the location, new types of infrastructure and superstructure, and new planning and governance models for the performance and sustainability of ports that will be involved in this new energy industry is highlighted. Also, the context in which ports associated with floating wind turbines are located influences the performance and sustainability. This research employs Fuzzy-Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA), based on a survey of 22 European sector company experts, to emphasize the critical port characteristics for the performance and sustainability. This study reveals the significant contribution of supporting ports for the future floating offshore wind sector for the gross added value and the expansion of regional employment, and the need for new planning, construction, operation, and management models for ports instead of the traditional models applied to simple cargo loading and unloading ports, offering valuable new insights for port managers, policymakers, and academics. However, a future research trajectory with a more geographically diverse sample is suggested to enhance the applicability and generalizability of the results.

Assessment of Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Heavy-Duty Trucking in a Non-Containerized Port through Simulation-Based Methods

Seaports are perceived as multimodal hubs of the logistics supply chain where various transport modes intersect to exchange goods shipped by vessels. Increasing trade and capacity constraints are making this area a major contributor to GHG emissions. National and regional decision-makers perceive port sustainability as a concern while planning GHG mitigation projects. However, to plan and conduct successful GHG management programs, it is critical to first develop an appropriate assessment approach that fits well with the operating and geographical context of the given port. For heavy-duty trucking activities taking place within such ports, several models and methodologies for assessing GHG emissions are available, but their generalization is challenging for many reasons, notably because of the specific features of traffic within the port. Therefore, this paper presents an assessment model for heavy-duty trucking emissions within a non-containerized port based on an in-depth study of the traffic per port zone and on parameters drawn from several real data sources. The GHG model based on road traffic profiles by zone is implemented in a simulation model for emission evaluation and prediction. The output shows the pattern of GHG emissions by zone and provides an outlook on how decision-makers could achieve a GHG reduction plan.

Port Sustainability Index: Methodological Issues

Approaches to find impact of maritime transport on environmental performance of ports or port regions through models with different sets of assumptions suffer from limitations. The paper describes an integrated Port Sustainability Index (PSI) by combining relevant environmental aspects of port processes and operations by transforming each indicator to follow normal distribution and taking PSI as sum of such normally distributed indicator scores, avoiding skew and outliers. Thus, there is no bias for developed or under-developed ports. PSI is simple and satisfies desired properties including assessment of effectiveness of policy measures through responsiveness, statistical tests of equality of mean PSI across ports. Dimensions of PSI can be ranked by respective elasticity. The method also helps to find growth curve of PSI of a port over time. Proposed PSI may help port authorities to evaluate their performance from the sustainability angle along with performances in the relevant dimensions and may serve as a strategic tool for port environmental performance management.

Investigation the effect of digital taxation and digital accounting on customs efficiency and port sustainability

This paper Exploration effect of digital taxation and digital accounting on customs efficiency and corporate sustainability at customs ports. Traditional tax and accounting procedures have undergone a radical transformation thanks to digital technology, which also provides more efficient methods that can have a big influence on customs operations. This article tries to clarify the interconnectivity between digital taxes, digital accounting, and the customs environment by a detailed analysis of customs-related factors such as compliance, efficiency, and sustainability. By automating compliance checks and streamlining tax-related activities, digital taxation is shown to considerably improve customs efficiency and efficiently comply with sustainability goals. Digital accounting simultaneously increases data accuracy and process efficiency, enhancing the sustainability of customs ports and significantly enhancing customs efficiency. The results of this study have significance for both customs agencies and businesses, offering the possibility of improving operational effectiveness, compliance observance, and sustainability practices. However, the necessity for continual research that concentrates on cutting-edge technology and legal frameworks is highlighted by several restrictions. By offering actual proof of the beneficial effects of digital technology on customs operations and sustainability, this study adds to the body of knowledge and lays the groundwork for further in-depth investigations.

Implementing decarbonisation measures in Norwegian ports

Despite the extensive literature on port sustainability, empirical research has so far paid limited attention to experiences with implementing measures that contribute to decarbonisation in small and medium-sized ports. This study contributes to the literature by investigating decarbonisation measures implemented by Norwegian ports, and drivers and barriers that ports associate with such efforts. We rely on a unique dataset of survey responses from 96 Norwegian port organisations, supplemented with insights from qualitative research. We find that most ports have implemented at least one measure that contributes to decarbonisation. Most prominent is shore power, followed by increased energy efficiency. We find that support from owners and surroundings is prominent in decarbonisation efforts and that political guidelines and steering from port owners are important drivers. Heterogeneity in port types and contexts implies that further empirical research is needed. This study calls for raising the role of ports in the energy transition on the political agenda.

Research Trends in Dry Port Sustainability: A Bibliometric Analysis

This study consolidates research on operational sustainability in dry ports. A total of 232 papers published in the last 23 years (2000–2023) are reviewed to assess the breadth of research perspectives in dry port sustainable operations. Additionally, the findings summarize current research trends, identify flaws in the body of knowledge, and suggest potential research areas. A bibliographic analysis approach is deployed to explore the existing body of knowledge, review the concepts in depth, and narrow the focus on potential research areas. Within this context, a content analysis technique has been utilized to explore and understand the conceptual underpinnings of specific themes, typically involving trending subjects like sustainability, dry ports, inland ports, economic sustainability, social sustainability, and environmental sustainability. Tools such as BibExcel and VOSviewer were utilized to assist in conducting the bibliometric analysis. The majority of dry port research has concentrated on the definition, functions, policy and governance, location analysis, ownership, and dry port-seaport interaction. Less attention is paid to dry port sustainability in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the interaction of internal and external collaboration with dry port sustainability, dry port social sustainability, dry port economic sustainability, dry port environment sustainability, and dry port service quality. Specifically, there has been limited research output on the sustainability of dry ports within the context of landlocked nations. This study will raise awareness of unexplored areas for further research by focusing on critical issues that are not generally covered by scholars in existing literature, such as dry port internal sustainability management and external collaboration.

Sustainability impacts of sediments on the estuary, ports, and fishing communities of Cartagena Bay, Colombian Caribbean

AbstractThis article reviews research on sediment flux impacts on the receiving estuary, ports, and society in Cartagena, Colombia. The city hosts both the country's largest touristic and coastal industrial sectors and is home to vulnerable coastal communities whose health and livelihoods are impacted by pollution. These marginalized artisanal fishing communities lack basic water and health services but have finally been recognized in a new intersectoral committee for Cartagena Bay's environmental management. To support the governance of these complex socioenvironmental challenges, the Cartagena Bay Observatory has been developed as a scientific tool to monitor the bay's conditions and forecast the effects of future sediment remediation plans. Cartagena Bay receives large freshwater discharges from the Dique Canal, draining from the 260,000 km2 Magdalena River watershed where 80% of the national population resides. This runoff transports sediment loads of 2.3 Mt/year, dispersing large plumes that affect the marine ecosystems and tourism and make the bay one of the Caribbean's largest sediment‐receiving estuaries. Following decades of watershed deforestation and erosion, the upward trending sediment inputs and accretion of the Dique delta have resulted in deposition rates of 1.8 cm/year, and the need for frequent dredging. Mercury dumped by a chemical industry in the 1970s can be found in concentrations as high as 18.8 μg/g buried below the bay's bottom. Mercury has also been found in the bay's biota and human populations, and so the dredging needed for the port's sustainability thereby presents a health risk by allowing this trapped mercury to surface.This article is categorized under: Science of Water > Hydrological Processes Science of Water > Water Quality Science of Water > Water and Environmental Change

THE OUTCOMES OF APPLYING SMART GREEN PORT CONCEPT IN EGYPTIAN PORTS (CASE STUDY: ALEXANDRIA PORT)

Abstract. The awareness of preserving the environment and the tendency to apply the concept of "smart" and "green" ports have increased during the last decade of the twenty-first century to prevent further pollution, whether inside the ports or in the hinterland. The researchers studied the experiences of several ports in the field of environmental preservation and transformation into smart green ports and achieved real environmental protection using modern technological techniques. Researchers studied the current environmental situation of Alexandria port and conducted a comparative study with several international ports to identify the gap that needed to be filled to reach a set of practical proposals for an actual application of the concept of smart green ports in Alexandria port. Sustainability is no longer a luxury but rather a strategic issue as the shipping industry has moved in the direction in recent years and has begun to take advantage of geospatial data and artificial intelligence to achieve the goal of a green port. Geospatial technology tools can be used in smart green ports in various ways to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability.This paper explores the use of geospatial technology tools in smart green ports to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability. The paper discusses various ways in which geospatial technology tools can be employed, including real-time tracking of vessels, optimizing berth allocation, monitoring air and water quality, managing waste, predicting maintenance requirements, and planning emergency response procedures. By leveraging these tools, ports can reduce their environmental impact and improve their overall performance. The paper concludes that geospatial technology tools have significant potential for enhancing the efficiency and sustainability of Smart green ports.

Toward sustainable port development: an empirical analysis of China’s port industry using an ESG framework

In recent years, the issue of sustainable development has become increasingly important in the port industry. As port policies are altered under decentralization and governance models, the application of corporate responsibility (CR) is expanding. It is now expected that ports take on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) responsibilities. This paper focuses on the application of an ESG framework to the port industry in China, with a specific emphasis on social responsibilities. By focusing on ESG-focal issues in the port industry, we establish a model for evaluating the sustainability of ports that takes into account the three dimensions of environment, society, and governance. An empirical analysis of Shanghai Port in China is presented to illustrate the application of the framework. The paper highlights the main contribution of the ESG framework to support sustainable port development and provides recommendations for promoting the implementation of ESG and sustainable development in the industry.

UAV-driven approach for assisting structural health monitoring of port infrastructure

Port engineering planning and management seek to confront challenges affecting the functional and structural capacity of port systems. To achieve this, design, maintenance, and rehabilitation strategies should be enhanced by dynamic approaches that help minimize the impacts of potential degradation due to climate change, natural hazards and aging of port infrastructure. Introducing Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) practices to asset management frameworks can improve port sustainability and resilience. Recently, new aspects for assisting SHM approaches with Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) applications have emerged. Therefore, the present research is focused on investigating the capabilities of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) monitoring program to advance current SHM practices for port infrastructure. For this purpose, four in-situ inspections were conducted by the Laboratory of Harbour Works (LHW) of the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) at a Greek port in central-eastern Greece, namely Lavrio port. Data analysis was performed with Close Range Photogrammetry (CRP) methods and Geographic Information System (GIS) tools. The overall research showed that the UAV-driven SHM supports the condition assessment of port infrastructure, thus assisting practices for smart maintenance.

Impact of Port Shallowness (Clearance under the Ship’s Keel) on Shipping Safety, Energy Consumption and Sustainability of Green Ports

In a majority of ports, a ship’s speed is limited for reasons of navigational safety. At the same time, captains and port pilots choose the speed of the ship, but it cannot be higher than the speed allowed in the port. Therefore, the speed of the ship also depends on the experience of the masters and harbor pilots and the sailing conditions in specific situations. Choosing the optimal speed of the ship in the port, considering the hydrodynamic effect of shallow water and the controllability of the ship, can help reduce fuel consumption and ship emissions, which is important for the development of a sustainable port. In all cases, the safety of the shipping is the highest priority. The main objectives of this article are determining the optimal speed of ships in ports with low clearance under a ship’s hull, ensuring navigational safety, reducing fuel consumption and emissions, and creating a sustainable port. This article presents the methodology for calculating the optimal ship speed as the minimum controllable speed, fuel consumption and emission reduction, as well as its implications for sustainable and green maritime transport and port development. The methodology presented has been tested on real ships and using a calibrated simulator, navigating through port channels and port water’s restricted conditions.

The role of port smartness in achieving sustainable development goals

ABSTRACT This research aims to investigate the simultaneous effect of smartness and sustainability in port cities. For this purpose, this study introduces the Smart Port Sustainability Index (SPSI) as a key metric for measuring the impact of port smartness on sustainable development goals. The results of SPSI values for different ports show that higher levels of intelligence do not necessarily correspond to greater sustainability. Ports that solely focus on adopting smart technologies may disregard environmental and social components of sustainable development. Alternatively, the efforts made by ports to achieve sustainable development goals can be regarded as a favorable factor in enhancing the intelligence and sustainability of ports. Furthermore, the regional analysis indicates that European ports outperform ports in North America and Asia across all three: sustainability indicators, Smartness operation, and the Smart Port Sustainability Index.

Challenges in the Digital Transformation of Ports

Digital transformation plays a significant role in modernizing and improving the efficiency of ports around the world. However, digitalization also brings a set of challenges that ports must face. They have to respond to several unique challenges because of the complexity of their operations and the varying demands of stakeholders. This study seeks to identify and summarize the challenges of digital transformation processes in ports. For this purpose, the World Ports Sustainability Program database was used. The findings revealed 74 digitalization initiatives carried out by ports, which makes it possible to recognize 7 dimensions and 32 sub-dimensions of challenges to the digital transformation process. Among the identified dimensions are port infrastructure, the interconnection between various systems, the port organization model, regulation, security and privacy, market evolution, and the establishment of partnerships to implement these projects. The results of this study are relevant to mitigate the risks of the digitalization process in ports and respond to market needs that demand greater transparency and visibility of their operations.