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Sustainable Strategies for Green Ports and Maritime Logistics: Innovations, Challenges, and Best Practices

A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Sustainable Transportation".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 April 2025) | Viewed by 11961

Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Nicoletta González-Cancelas

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Transport, Territorial and Urban Planning Engineering, Technical University of Madrid , 28040 Madrid, Spain
Interests: port management; logistic; blue economy; digitalization; maritime transportation; energy transition
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. Alberto Camarero Orive

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Transport, Territorial and Urban Planning Engineering, Technical University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Interests: port management; logistic; blue economy; digitalization; maritime transportation
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Francisco Soler Flores

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Education Faculty, UNIR, Calle Del General Díaz Porlier, 101, 28006 Madrid, Spain
Interests: artificial intelligence; machine learning; deep learning; bayesian networks for civil engineering
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Rodrigo Pérez Fernández

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Architecture, Construction and Naval Ocean and Systems, School of Naval Engineering, Technical University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Interests: marine industry; Industry 4.0; maritime transport
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Prof. Dr. David Díaz Gutiérrez

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Architecture, Construction and Naval Ocean and Systems, School of Naval Engineering, Technical University of Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain
Interests: maritime economics; logistics; maritime transport

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are delighted to announce the launch of a Special Issue that focuses on "Sustainable Strategies for Green Ports and Maritime Logistics: Innovations, Challenges, and Best Practices".

The field of logistics system planning, port, and maritime system planning has witnessed remarkable advancements in recent years, becoming a crucial area of research and innovation. This Special Issue aims to provide a platform for researchers to showcase their cutting-edge work in this field, fostering discussions, collaborations, and the exchange of knowledge to advance our understanding and practices.

The primary aim of this Special Issue is to gather high-quality research papers, reviews, and perspectives that focus on advancements in logistics system planning, port, and maritime system planning. We invite contributions that present novel findings, methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and practical applications within this field. By publishing this Special Issue in our esteemed journal, we aim to enhance the visibility and impact of the research conducted in this area, further solidifying our journal as a prominent platform for scientific discourse.

It is important to note that the Special Issue aligns perfectly with the scope of our journal, which encompasses a wide range of topics related to logistics, transportation, and maritime studies. The research presented in this Special Issue should contribute to our journal's mission of disseminating high-quality, original research within the broader context of logistics, transportation, and related fields.

To guide potential contributors, we suggest the following themes for submissions to this Special Issue:

  • Theme 1: Optimization models and algorithms for logistics system planning in port and maritime contexts.
  • Theme 2: Application of emerging technologies (such as blockchain, Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence) in port and maritime system planning.
  • Theme 3: Sustainable practices and green initiatives in logistics, port, and maritime systems.
  • Theme 4: Risk management and resilience strategies for port and maritime operations.
  • Theme 5: Innovations in port infrastructure planning and design for efficient operations.

These themes serve as starting points, and we welcome submissions that fall within the broader scope of logistics system planning, port, and maritime system planning, even if they do not directly align with the suggested themes. We encourage authors to provide a clear rationale for the significance and relevance of their research within this field.

In summary, this Special Issue aims to promote and disseminate advancements in logistics system planning, port, and maritime system planning. By providing a platform for researchers to share their latest research findings, methodologies, and practical applications, we strive to facilitate progress in this field and contribute to the overall body of knowledge.

We look forward to receiving your valuable contributions to this Special Issue.

Sincerely,

Prof. Dr. Nicoletta González-Cancelas
Prof. Dr. Alberto Camarero Orive
Dr. Francisco Soler Flores
Dr. Rodrigo Pérez Fernández
Prof. Dr. David Díaz Gutiérrez
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • logistics system planning
  • port operations
  • maritime system planning
  • optimization models
  • emerging technologies
  • sustainability
  • risk management

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  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Related Special Issue

Published Papers (6 papers)

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Research

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10 pages, 363 KiB  
Article
Sustainable Strategies for Ports and Maritime Logistics: A Methodological Approach to Green Transition
by Elena Cocuzza, Matteo Ignaccolo, Cristiano Marinacci, Stefano Ricci, Elen Twrdy and Marina Zanne
Sustainability 2025, 17(13), 5739; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17135739 - 22 Jun 2025
Viewed by 491
Abstract
Ports represent the point of intersection between sea and land, as well as a crucial node for the integration of maritime and land transport in the global logistics chain. Consequently, it is crucial to consider an articulated system that includes dry ports, freight [...] Read more.
Ports represent the point of intersection between sea and land, as well as a crucial node for the integration of maritime and land transport in the global logistics chain. Consequently, it is crucial to consider an articulated system that includes dry ports, freight interchange and intermodal logistics platforms, since the relationships between the port and the city, as well as those between the different decision-makers involved, are multiple and complex. Maritime transport and port operations have a direct and indirect impact on the surrounding contexts, with significant effects, particularly from an environmental point of view. Therefore, the green transition in logistics, port, and maritime systems is essential for reducing these impacts. In this context, the aspects related to operational practices and terminal design are of great importance. This paper aims to explore sustainable strategies for ports and maritime logistics in order to provide a methodological approach to green transition. The proposed methodology was divided into phases. First, an analysis of international and European legislation was conducted in order to identify the main critical issues. Subsequently, a review of the existing literature and best practices was carried out to identify tested solutions. The third phase included a Stakeholder Engagement Process, centred on the use of a thematic focus group to foster a collaborative approach to the definition of priorities and operational strategies. Part of the proposed methodology was implemented as part of the DEMASTER—Design of Maritime Sustainable Terminals—project, and it can allow for the evaluation of the different options and the identification of more effective and innovative solutions for the green transition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Strategies for Green Ports and Maritime Logistics: Innovations, Challenges, and Best Practices)
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15 pages, 3041 KiB  
Article
Economic Impact of the Application of the ETS to European Ports: Analysis of Different Scenarios
by Javier Vaca-Cabrero, Nicoletta González-Cancelas, Alberto Camarero-Orive, María Magdalena Esteban-Infantes Corral and Stefano Ricci
Sustainability 2024, 16(23), 10433; https://doi.org/10.3390/su162310433 - 28 Nov 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1686
Abstract
The fight against climate change is one of the main global challenges of our time, and the European Union (EU) seeks to achieve climate neutrality and energy transition for the continent by 2050 through various policies. This research studies the economic implications of [...] Read more.
The fight against climate change is one of the main global challenges of our time, and the European Union (EU) seeks to achieve climate neutrality and energy transition for the continent by 2050 through various policies. This research studies the economic implications of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) on European ports. By analysing various maritime scenarios, the study assesses how the ETS influences shipping routes, port competitiveness, and overall economic activity. A key finding is that the ETS imposes significant additional costs on shipping companies, which could lead to adjustments in routes and a shift in cargo volumes to ports in regions with less stringent environmental regulations. This could result in job losses in European port communities and reduce the competitiveness of European ports. In addition, the potential for carbon leakage, where shipping activities are simply relocated to regions with fewer emission controls, is explored. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Strategies for Green Ports and Maritime Logistics: Innovations, Challenges, and Best Practices)
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32 pages, 4006 KiB  
Article
Prioritizing Criteria for Establishing a Green Shipping Corridor Between the Ports of Sines and Luanda Using Fuzzy AHP
by Alberto Antonio Bengue, Seyedeh Azadeh Alavi-Borazjani, Valentina Chkoniya, José Luís Cacho and Mariantonietta Fiore
Sustainability 2024, 16(21), 9563; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16219563 - 2 Nov 2024
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2479
Abstract
As port authorities and cargo operators seek strategies to reduce carbon emissions while ensuring operational efficiency, some are turning to the concept of green corridors. These solutions aim to establish formalized partnerships among ports, carriers, shippers, and countries. During the process, the stakeholders [...] Read more.
As port authorities and cargo operators seek strategies to reduce carbon emissions while ensuring operational efficiency, some are turning to the concept of green corridors. These solutions aim to establish formalized partnerships among ports, carriers, shippers, and countries. During the process, the stakeholders must consider four priority areas (alternative fuels, bunkering infrastructure, vessel decarbonization pathways, and cargo demand dynamics) from seven angles (environmental, economic, infrastructure, regulatory, operational, technological, and social). This study explores the prioritization of these criteria for establishing a green maritime corridor between two major ports in Portugal and Angola, which would be a significant step toward promoting sustainable global trade. Utilizing the fuzzy AHP, this research analyzes all these factors and their associated sub-criteria derived from a comprehensive literature review and consultations with stakeholders from the Ports of Sines and Luanda. The findings show the dominance of environmental compatibility and economic viability, while social acceptance shows the lowest score. This framework guides the decision-making process for developing a sustainable shipping corridor. The results offer valuable insights for policymakers which can guide them in fostering resilient maritime transport routes, accelerating the adoption of decarbonization strategies and playing a critical role in achieving the IMO’s zero-emission targets by 2050. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Strategies for Green Ports and Maritime Logistics: Innovations, Challenges, and Best Practices)
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38 pages, 1727 KiB  
Article
Sourcing Sustainability Transition in Small and Medium-Sized Ports of the Baltic Sea Region: A Case of Sustainable Futuring with Living Labs
by Laima Gerlitz, Christopher Meyer and Lawrence Henesey
Sustainability 2024, 16(11), 4667; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16114667 - 30 May 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1619
Abstract
The present research points to an alternative concern against the mainstream research of future ports’ development by taking a transdisciplinary approach of a Living Lab (LL) concept for a better sustainability and innovation record in Small and Medium-Sized Ports (SMSPs). Deploying qualitative research [...] Read more.
The present research points to an alternative concern against the mainstream research of future ports’ development by taking a transdisciplinary approach of a Living Lab (LL) concept for a better sustainability and innovation record in Small and Medium-Sized Ports (SMSPs). Deploying qualitative research for the examination of this new phenomenon of aggregating LLs into SMSPs, this research builds upon stakeholder workshops, in-depth interviews, and designed port pilots as case studies dedicated to innovation and sustainability transition in the Baltic Sea Region (BSR) at the turn of 2030. Given its rich and significant empirical foundation, the present research substantially contributes to sustainability orientation and transitions in ports. The key original elements of this study are fourfold: (1) the research provides a theoretical and practical LL framework enabling innovation and sustainability to be grasped in ports in times of technological, social, and political disruption; (2) this research increases the minimal number of existing previous efforts studying SMSPs in the transitional discourse; (3) the paper addresses not only hard technological innovation concerns but also aspects of social acceptance and the role of social interactions; (4) the research goes beyond geographical boundaries of a single port, thus providing a joint and collaborative approach towards sustainability rather than an individual perception on sustainability transition, existing networks, and clusters. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Strategies for Green Ports and Maritime Logistics: Innovations, Challenges, and Best Practices)
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Review

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27 pages, 1015 KiB  
Review
Sustainable Port Operations: Pollution Prevention and Mitigation Strategies
by Tiago A. Santos
Sustainability 2025, 17(11), 4798; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17114798 - 23 May 2025
Viewed by 738
Abstract
This paper presents a review of current developments in port pollution prevention and mitigation. A systematic categorization of the sources of pollution in the development and operation phases of ports and terminals is first presented. The paper then considers in detail technological and [...] Read more.
This paper presents a review of current developments in port pollution prevention and mitigation. A systematic categorization of the sources of pollution in the development and operation phases of ports and terminals is first presented. The paper then considers in detail technological and regulatory measures currently being applied to limit port pollution in the operation phase. This review is combined with that of relevant academic research and aims to fill a research gap by identifying the current and emerging port pollution themes and the latest trends in measures for pollution prevention and mitigation. A comprehensive approach is taken in this review by including not only academic research but also the industry’s research and development initiatives and the regulatory authority’s legislation. This paper identifies more than thirty different technological, regulatory, or organizational measures to limit pollution, although details on company-based research and development were found to be scarce. Mitigation of greenhouse gases and air-polluting emissions is identified as the most important field of research, but it is affected by regulatory uncertainties. Further research is needed on topics such as increased alternative fuel provision, digitalization potential for sustainability enhancement, and strategies for engaging stakeholders in greening ports. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Strategies for Green Ports and Maritime Logistics: Innovations, Challenges, and Best Practices)
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36 pages, 2581 KiB  
Review
A Review of Port Decarbonisation Options: Identified Opportunities for Deploying Hydrogen Technologies
by David Holder, Steven David Percy and Ali Yavari
Sustainability 2024, 16(8), 3299; https://doi.org/10.3390/su16083299 - 15 Apr 2024
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3456
Abstract
The utilisation of hydrogen is being explored as a viable solution for reducing carbon emissions in port operations, with potential applications in cargo handling, transportation, and shipping vessel operations. To comprehensively list the decarbonisation options in ports, this study conducted a Systematic Literature [...] Read more.
The utilisation of hydrogen is being explored as a viable solution for reducing carbon emissions in port operations, with potential applications in cargo handling, transportation, and shipping vessel operations. To comprehensively list the decarbonisation options in ports, this study conducted a Systematic Literature Review to identify and then survey twelve highly cited review papers. Initially, a typology approach was used to categorise the decarbonisation options by activities and technologies. Subsequently, the study introduced a novel Port Energy Map to reveal the energy system pathways and their interconnections. Each pathway was then converted into a simpler linear sequence of activities, shown as a Port Energy System Taxonomy, which outlines the energy supply and energy-using activities. By utilising this taxonomy and map, the study identified opportunities and research gaps for integrating hydrogen technologies into port energy systems, which serves as a valuable tool for assessing port decarbonisation options. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Strategies for Green Ports and Maritime Logistics: Innovations, Challenges, and Best Practices)
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