How to Reduce Emissions in Maritime Ports? An Overview of Cargo Handling Innovations and Port Services

Maritime ports, being major transportation hubs in the worldwide trade, are going through significant challenges within globalization and increase of turnover. It forces port authorities and terminal operators to work on area expansion, equipment modernization and comply with the new standards regarding climate change and energy transition. The purpose of the study is to introduce various technologies and innovations within terminal and administrative side of a maritime port that contribute to reduction of emissions. For that, a literature overview is carried out, considering port operations across six areas: berth, quay, transport, yard, gate and port administrative. The focus is given to academic studies and reviews as well as commercial projects. The goal is to provide an overview of cargo handling equipment and related innovations that contribute to reduction of harmful environmental emissions in the port area. Generally, ports are undergoing significant changes: gradual shifts from vessel engine to landside power, use of electric engines, better planning over the yard space, distant coordination of transport equipment, transition of document paper flow to online format etc. Consequently, these elements of port strategic development contribute to a positive environmental effect which in perspective could transform ports into urban-friendly locations. The research could be of interest for port authorities, local municipalities and a broader audience who want to get acquainted with port facilities to a closer extent.