Article
by Kadri Haufe
Towards sustainable data-driven ports
In Europe, roughly 40% of the population is living in 50km radius of the sea. We are very used to the water and can usually remember a nice story dating back to childhood in connection to the sea and its marvels. Nordic companies are immensely succesful globally in building ships as well as transportation. The same could be said to leading way in terms of making ports as sustainable as possible.
The global challenge of climate change, driven by excessive greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from human activities, is entering the discussion. The maritime industry—a critical structure of the global economy—is grappling with its significant contribution to GHG emissions. Despite its energy efficiency, maritime transport remains a major emitter of GHGs, with port operations being a key area of concern. However, the industry’s potential for improving sustainability lies in better data collection, enhanced traceability, and the automation of emission monitoring processes. Then, learning from these to become even more efficient.
The maritime industry’s challenge: data deficiency and emission calculation
One of the most pressing issues in the sector is the lack of comprehensive data collection and traceability. This gap is not due to a lack of interest or effort but stems from the inadequacies of existing GHG accounting software. These tools, while useful in many contexts, often fall short in accurately calculating the carbon footprint of maritime operations, particularly within ports. The complexity of port operations, with their variety of activities and interactions, presents a unique challenge for conventional GHG accounting systems.
The maritime industry, crucial for global trade, has been slow in integrating advanced data solutions, primarily because of these limitations. Ports, as hubs of maritime activity, have complex emission profiles that require specialized approaches for accurate monitoring and reporting. Without reliable data, it becomes difficult to implement effective sustainability measures, comply with regulations, or engage in emission trading schemes like carbon credits.
The global push for sustainability: policies and regulations
Recognizing the maritime industry’s role in global emissions, international and national policies are increasingly focusing on reducing GHG emissions. These regulations, such as the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) initial GHG strategy, emphasize the importance of data collection and reporting. As regulations become more stringent, the need for precise data gathering becomes paramount. Ports and shipping companies need to invest in advanced data solutions to meet these regulatory requirements (in a cost efficient manner), avoid penalties and overexpanding on emissions mitigation, and, ultimately, remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
Finland: innovating in logistics and data solutions
Finland has been at the forefront of integrating data-driven solutions in logistics and the maritime sector, where data is used to minimize waste in the HoReCa sector, metal industry and ports. By implementing systems and models, Read more here. By focusing on automation, real-time data collection, and advanced analytics, Finland is setting new standards in maritime sustainability. These efforts are not only helping to reduce emissions but also driving economic efficiency, as companies can better manage resources and optimize operations based on accurate data.
Case Study: GHG emission mapping at the Port of Tallinn
Also, a prime example of the potential for data-driven sustainability in the maritime industry is the Port of Tallinn’s initiative to develop an advanced GHG emissions mapping system. This project highlights how data can transform port operations and set a benchmark for sustainability.
At the core of the Port of Tallinn’s initiative is a sophisticated system that integrates multiple data sources into a centralized database, allowing for near real-time monitoring of GHG emissions. This system automates data collection from various operational activities, ensuring that the information is accurate and up to date. The benefits of this approach are:
- Efficiency and accuracy: By automating data collection, the Port of Tallinn has significantly reduced the time and resources needed to gather and validate emissions’ data. This ensures that the data is both reliable and timely, allowing for more informed decision-making.
- Transparency and accessibility: The system’s ability to publish GHG emissions data online provides transparency for all stakeholders, including shipping companies, cargo operators, tenants, and regulatory bodies. This openness fosters trust and encourages collective action to reduce emissions.
- Compliance and competitive advantage: The Port of Tallinn’s system ensures compliance with environmental regulations, giving it a competitive edge. Ports that can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability are likely to attract more business in a world increasingly focused on environmental responsibility.
- Collaboration and innovation: The data collected and shared through this system enables better collaboration between stakeholders. By identifying emission hotspots and sharing best practices, the Port of Tallinn is leading the way in developing joint mitigation strategies.
A graph showcasing scope one and scope two. Please see scope three as well, here
Jonne Kotta, leading expert for Port of Tallinn's Sustainability Application
One of the most important elements of a port GHG emissions inventory is data. It is advisable that data should be collected directly from the sources being inventoried and validated before use.
This enables uncertainties associated with different data elements to be assessed. As data collection and validation is the most time-consuming phase of an emissions assessment, our experience at the Port of Tallinn confirmed that this process should be automated as much as possible. Even if an initial investment in the automation activity seems high, it will pay off within only a few years. Specifically, knowledge of the GHG emission mapping process changes very rapidly over time, and if mapping processes are fully or partially automated, it is possible to change different elements of the assessment process with little effort and great flexibility. Moreover, this approach also allows for effective quality control and transparency.”
Future with data
Looking ahead, the maritime industry must continue to include data-driven solutions to enhance sustainability. The lessons learned from the Port of Tallinn’s initiative can serve as an anchor for other ports worldwide. As the industry moves towards climate neutrality by 2050, the integration of advanced data technologies will be crucial.
Ports must invest in similar systems to monitor emissions, optimize operations, and ensure regulatory compliance. Additionally, the adoption of carbon markets can provide financial incentives for reducing emissions, further encouraging sustainable practices.
The future of the maritime industry is reliable on its ability to harness the power of data to drive sustainability. By investing in advanced data collection and automation, ports and shipping companies can reduce their environmental impact, comply with emerging regulations, and maintain a competitive edge in the global market. As industry navigates the challenges of climate change, data will be the compass that guides it towards a sustainable maritime industry.
The maritime industry’s challenge: data deficiency and emission calculation
One of the most pressing issues in the sector is the lack of comprehensive data collection and traceability. This gap is not due to a lack of interest or effort but stems from the inadequacies of existing GHG accounting software. These tools, while useful in many contexts, often fall short in accurately calculating the carbon footprint of maritime operations, particularly within ports. The complexity of port operations, with their variety of activities and interactions, presents a unique challenge for conventional GHG accounting systems.
The maritime industry, crucial for global trade, has been slow in integrating advanced data solutions, primarily because of these limitations. Ports, as hubs of maritime activity, have complex emission profiles that require specialized approaches for accurate monitoring and reporting. Without reliable data, it becomes difficult to implement effective sustainability measures, comply with regulations, or engage in emission trading schemes like carbon credits.
The maritime industry’s challenge: data deficiency and emission calculation
One of the most pressing issues in the sector is the lack of comprehensive data collection and traceability. This gap is not due to a lack of interest or effort but stems from the inadequacies of existing GHG accounting software. These tools, while useful in many contexts, often fall short in accurately calculating the carbon footprint of maritime operations, particularly within ports. The complexity of port operations, with their variety of activities and interactions, presents a unique challenge for conventional GHG accounting systems.
The maritime industry, crucial for global trade, has been slow in integrating advanced data solutions, primarily because of these limitations. Ports, as hubs of maritime activity, have complex emission profiles that require specialized approaches for accurate monitoring and reporting. Without reliable data, it becomes difficult to implement effective sustainability measures, comply with regulations, or engage in emission trading schemes like carbon credits.
Valdo Kalm, CEO of the Port of Tallinn
"We have laid strong foundations for the future. The Port of Tallinn has received a lot of recognition for our efforts, and we intend to improve even more in the next 5-10 years. Our commitment to sustainability and innovation is unwavering, and we believe that our actions today will set the stage for a more sustainable maritime industry tomorrow."
